On December 13, 2024, the "beginning of the New Year ceremony" was held in Kyoto City, where Kyoto's geisha districts and old families begin preparations for the New Year. In the geisha districts, kimono-clad geisha and maiko went around to greet their art teachers and teahouses, saying "Congratulations."
From just after 10 a.m., geisha and maiko from the Gion Kobu school came to the practice studio of Inoue Yachiyo (Living National Treasure), head of the Inoue school of Kyomai in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, one after another, bowing their heads and saying, "I look forward to working with you."
A row of kagami mochi delivered by her disciples was lined up on a red stage, creating an early New Year's festive atmosphere. Headmaster Inoue Yachiyo handed out dance fans and other items while calling out to each person, "Do your best" and "Set goals."
