The Geisha House

In 1958, the societal backdrop is set with the impending implementation of the Anti-Prostitution Law, creating a tense environment for the geisha community. The law threatens to disrupt the traditional livelihood of the geishas and their hostesses, including Tokiko and Madam Satoe. This development influences many of the characters' decisions and actions throughout the story.

Tokiko, a young maiko, works under Madam Satoe at the Fujinoya Geisha House. She observes the daily routines of geisha life and the relationships among the women, including conflicts such as Terucho's anger at Kimiryo for sleeping with a client. Tokiko’s initiation into geisha life is marked by her participation in these routines.

Tokiko witnesses a dispute where Terucho becomes angry with Kimiryo for sleeping with a client at the Momoyama Hotel. This incident highlights the complex relationships and tensions among the geishas, as personal relationships intertwine with professional boundaries.

Tokiko observes striking workers at Hinod Taxi being beaten by hired thugs, exposing the harsh realities of labor disputes and violence in the city. This event underscores the social unrest and economic struggles faced by ordinary people during this period.

The tailor Mr. Yoshikawa, a long-time patron of Madam Satoe, stops visiting after his wife and daughter request him to cease. His son and friends visit the geisha house, entertaining Terucho and revealing family dynamics. Mr. Yoshikawa’s family’s affections conflict with his patronage.

Mr. Yoshikawa's son visits Terucho and they engage in a sexual encounter. When Mr. Yoshikawa discovers this, he reacts angrily and cuts ties with Madam Satoe, showing the strain between personal desire and social reputation.

The son admits to plotting to make Mr. Yoshikawa leave Madam Satoe and then proceeds to rape Terucho. She later reports the incident to the police and plans to take him to court, fearing damage to his reputation due to his engagement and social standing.

Michiko, a long-standing bar owner and concubine, borrows money from Madam Satoe to support her young son Ichiro. However, her partner disappears to his hometown, leaving her uncertain of his whereabouts after 15 years of her devotion.

Tokiko receives a new geisha name, 'Omocha' (meaning 'toy'), from Madam Hanaman. She prepares for her debut as a maiko, a significant milestone in her career, and is set to meet her first client, Mr. Tamura, a wealthy 78-year-old man.

Madam Hanaman offers to cover part of Tokiko’s debut expenses in exchange for a share of her first client’s fee. Madam Satoe also sells her body for money to support her expenses, illustrating the financial hardships faced by the characters in this environment.

Tokiko makes her debut at her debut party and keeps her appointment with her first client, Mr. Tamura. This marks her official entry into the geisha profession amidst ongoing financial and social pressures.