CELEBRATE CHERRY BLOSSOM SEASON AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, TOKYO

Glimpse into the fascinating world of geisha traditions and shamisen music during the cherry blossom season in Tokyo

In celebration of cherry blossom season and the hotel’s fifth anniversary, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is pleased to showcase the Edo culture and traditions of Nihonbashi, where 400 years of rich history and traditions have been skilfully combined with modern urban innovations. Guests can enjoy award-winning hospitality with a range of enticing room packages, plus the chance to learn more about the fascinating world of geisha traditions.

On 4 April, the hotel will feature the Nihonbashi Gala Spring Performance by a group of geisha from Yoshi-cho, long known as Tokyo’s premier geisha quarters, accompanied by Master Hidetaro Honjoh, composer and recipient of the Purple Ribbon Medal and one of Japan’s leading shamisen performers (a three-stringed musical instrument).

Hidetaro Honjoh will present a series of classical and new Hauta—which are short, stylish or witty verses sung to a shamisen accompaniment. As a prelude to the performance, a sword drawing display showcasing the samurai art of swordsmanship will be presented.

At the event, the walls of the hotel’s stylish 550m2 ballroom will be adorned with visuals and moving images, including those of breathtaking cherry blossoms, providing a contemporary backdrop to the traditional dance and musical performances of the geisha.

Yoshi-cho, was a famed entertainment district which also housed many Kabuki theatres, with geishas who performed at playhouses in the golden years of the Edo Era known as the Genroku Period (1680-1709). Yoshi-cho’s Karyukai (the highly exclusive and traditional society of the geisha) is shrouded in traditions and dates back as far as the Edo Era, making it the oldest remaining Karyukai society in Tokyo. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo is delighted to present this rare opportunity for guests to view the fascinating world of the geisha.

Click on the links to view Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo’s range of tempting offers, including: Luxury Breaks with a daily dining and spa credit, Suite Temptations or a simple Bed & Breakfast package at our best available rate. Reservations can be made online at www.mandarinoriental.com/tokyo, or via e-mail at motyo-reservations@mohg.com.

About the Spring Gala Performance
Date: 4 April 2010 (Sunday)
Time: Doors open from 3:30pm / Performance schedule: 4pm - 5pm
Venue: 3rd Floor Grand Ballroom, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Tickets: JPY8,500 per person (including tax)
includes one drink either before or after the performance and a photo opportunity with geisha after the performance

For the gala event reservations or further enquiries, please phone +81 3-3270-8920 (9am to 9pm) or e-mail motyo-sales@mohg.com.