I would step in right after the maiko’s entrance, translating her words so guests from around the world could connect directly with her — even though she spoke only Japanese, in Kyoto’s traditional and old dialect.

My work began weeks before each event — negotiating with vendors, building timelines, arranging transport and personalized menus, and coordinating with photographers and videographers. On the day, every minute was choreographed. I translated not just words, but transitions. I read silences. I solved problems before anyone even noticed.

Of course, not everything was as seamless as it looked. A few unexpected challenges taught me some of the most valuable lessons.

On one occasion, a group of guests mistakenly went to the company’s office instead of the event venue. Frustrated at having missed the first ten minutes of the maiko performance — one of the evening’s highlights — they arrived visibly upset. I immediately arranged a taxi to bring them to the correct location and welcomed them personally, taking time to listen and reassure them.

Fortunately, the event still had much to offer: traditional games, conversation time, photo sessions. Missing the opening dance didn’t ruin the experience — and to ensure they felt cared for, I discreetly adjusted the flow of the evening so the maiko could spend a few extra moments at their table. That small act made a big impact — and because of the precise timekeeping we always maintained, it didn’t disrupt the schedule or affect other guests.

After the event, I followed up with the communications team to recommend removing the office address from all confirmation emails and materials — keeping only the venue’s name and map, in bold — to prevent similar confusion in the future.

Another night, a cultural misunderstanding caused tension. In our diverse, multilingual audience, an English woman was offended when a young German guest took a playful photo pretending to kiss the geisha on the cheek. The room stiffened. Our Japanese hostess didn’t know how to respond. I stepped in calmly, asked her to keep the English guest engaged, and I focused on the German guest — offering conversation and gentle redirection to ease the mood. The evening went on smoothly, and both guests left smiling.

It wasn’t just an event. It was a ritual — and my role was to ensure every element was in the right place, at the right time, with the right energy.

GEISHA

Behind the Scenes of a Geisha Dinner in Kyoto: What It’s Like to Coordinate an Authentic Experiencie