The Furumachi area is one of Japan’s most famous geisha districts. With 200 years of history, the Niigata Furumachi Geigi is an important cultural legacy from Niigata’s past as a port city.
We hope you’ll visit Niigata’s traditional Ryotei restaurants to savor fine local cuisine, history, and the captivating performances of Geigi dressed in lavish kimono.

The origins of the Niigata Furumachi Geigi go back nearly 200 years, to the Edo period. Niigata was flourishing as a major port-of-calland trade town on the Kitamaebune sea route. In time, a Geisha district formed, and Niigata’s Furumachi Geigi came to entertain guests with elegant performances.
Geigi are both a vital part of Niigata’s traditional heritage, and the symbol of the Furumachi Geisha District, where atmospheric streets of traditional Ryotei restaurants serve fresh, seasonal cuisine together with Japan’s best rice and local saké.

Almost all Ryotei in Niigata are open to first-time visitors, so there is no reason to worry about introductions.
It is not uncommon for couples or women to reserve Geigi for special occasions. Additionally, guests do not need to know any special manners to visit a Ryotei, so there is no need to feel anxious or embarrassed. If you have any questions or concerns, please just ask your server.
Geigi not only creates an enjoyable atmosphere by performing and leading diners in traditional games but also speaks in a gentle and charming Niigata dialect. We hope you will enjoy your Ryotei experience.