Geisha: The Secret History of a Vanishing World

Ever since Westerners arrived in Japan, they have been intrigued by Japanese womanhood and, in particular, geisha. Contrary to popular opinion, geisha are not prostitutes but, literally, 'arts people'. Their accomplishments might include singing, dancing or playing a musical instrument but, above all, they are masters of the art of conversation, soothing the worries of the highly paid businessmen who can afford their attentions with extreme skill and patience. The real, hidden history of the geisha in Japan is here for the first time fully and brilliantly explored by an award-winning writer.