November 21st, 2018: Congratulations to Shino (紫乃) of Fukushima (福嶋) and Mameryū (まめ柳) of Tama (多麻) in Gion Kobu on the occasion of their double erikae! Shino is the third maiko from her relatively new okiya to turn her collar and Mameryū is the first imōto of Mamechizu (豆千鶴) of Mitsuki (光貴) to do the same! Mameryū has been known for her willowy and mature beauty for a while now, so seeing her finally taking on an adult look just makes it seem like she’s finally in the role that she was meant for. Shino, on the other hand, was Gion Kobu’s most senior maiko, and seeing her as a geiko is just so awesome as she truly suits the roll as well! Both wore hikizuri that were owned by their okiya, which is not unusual in Gion Kobu, so they won’t be wearing their own custom hikizuri until they’re jimae. Both are also wearing special maezashi that women from their okiya wear for their erikae as well, although they’re a bit hard to see unless you zoom in. Tama’s features green jade in the shape of a fan with two redish-pink gems, most likely a ruby and a tourmaline, sitting on a gold branch. The piece probably eludes the story of Hourai’s Gem Branch, in which a prince travels to find a tree made of precious metals and gems. Fukushima’s, meanwhile, is a simple delicate rose carved out of coral. Both have their unique charms that seem to bring out the best in their wearers! おめでとうさんどす紫乃さんとまめ柳さん ^o^! Images are courtesy of Ktellusastory who gave me permission to post some exclusive pictures and Denny Chao ^^
