The Higashi (Eastern) Chaya District seen here is one of three traditional "pleasure" districts in Kanazawa. This District was established in 1820 and was considered the leading "pleasure" district outside of Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. Chaya is a traditional establishment for dining and entertainment. It also is called a teahouse. As seen in this photo, chaya are decorated with a attractive lattice called "kimusuko" on the outer side of the first floor. Japanese-style guestrooms are located located on the second floor. Since the 1600's Geisha have entertained in these establishments by performing dances and playing Japanese traditional musical instruments, such as the shamisen (a three-stringed musical instrument), bamboo flute, and drum. Geisha also have served as hostesses in these establishments. Basically Geisha are professional entertainers. They attend to guests during meals and festivals and are skillful in the art of communication. A Geisha's role is to make guests feel at ease and increase their pleasure by conversing with them and entertaining them. Presumably sake also helps. The Higashi Chaya District still has some operating chaya in addition to shops, restaurants and residences.
Kanazawa is not as popular a tourist destination as some other cities in Japan because of its relatively remote location between mountains and the sea of Japan. During the Edo Period (early 1600's to the mid 1800's) Kanazawa was the seat of the second most powerful clan in Japan making it an influential city. The city escaped destruction during World War II because of its lack of industry. It is a culturally rich city famous for its seafood, crafts and historical buildings and items. Kanazawa and Takyama are two of the best preserved Edo Period major cities in Japan. Fortunately we saw both of them.
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