Onsen geisha

Interaction with other customers beyond party entertainment was common; therefore, the concept of onsen geisha as sex workers was not entirely incorrect in the earlier half of the 20th century.

Some geisha would compete amongst themselves for their standards and who they would sleep with, but, as Masuda details, this likely originated from making the most of a poor and sometimes exploitative situation, in some ways further bolstering the perception of onsen geisha as sex workers: Karuta was a first-rate Elder Sister: she had standards and would never sleep with any man other than her danna.

This "geisha's pride" wasn't worth a broken straw sandal, of course, but - under the influence of Karuta, I suppose - its hollow conceits took root in my mind.Masuda notes that many onsen geisha of this time has serious problems with alcohol due to the sake drinking contests which frequently formed a significant part of their work through parties.

Many foreign visitors to Japan, unfamiliar with the traditions of appearance separating geisha from sex workers, were unable to distinguish between the two, as both wore kimono and were seen to entertain men.

[citation needed] In Atami, the official registry office regards long-time, proven geisha as separate from those who have not yet completed their first year.