Japanese culture has a huge influence over the style of Second Life. Which is surprising considering that Japan has a small number of users in world compared to the U.S. and other countries. But their Kawaii designs and spare traditional style are perfect fits for VR.
Most Japanese designers are part of the Kawaii crowd. They have sims filled with curious and adorable animals. Their avatars look like anime kids come to life, complete with oversized eyes and big feet. Their clothing designers are some of the most popular in SL. Their clothing stores consist of basics with an eye for textures. They lean toward wholesome looks with slightly cheeky touches here and there.
Another popular culture infusion is the Flower and Willow world. From what I've observed the recreation of Geiko culture seems to be a western obsession. But one that is supported by many Japanese designers who create period correct traditional furniture and clothing.
The Flower and Willow world in SL is a curious mixture of Role Play, Fantasy, Anthropological correctness, and show business. Entering the world of SL Geisha is easier than in RL. But that doesn't mean that rules are totally relaxed. An SL resident cannot just barge straight into an SL Geisha party.
The nicer affairs are strictly invitation only. So to partake in these events, a resident must join the mailing lists of the various Okiyas in world. Once a new patron gets into the swing of attending public events, the SL Geiko and Maiko will be sure to add the patron to their personal mailing lists. And these will almost certainly be for smaller, more exclusive affairs. Many Ochayas will also be certain to keep track of patrons as well.
As in RL, Geisha parties are whimsical. They contain jokes, poetry, stories, gossip, music and dancing. The Geisha and Maiko are charming enough to make even the shyest of patrons feel comfortable. The parties are also set in some of the most beautifully designed sims and buildings in all of SL.
In RL, this world is almost an exclusive domain for powerful men. But in SL the parties are always a good mix of male and female patrons.
If you are interested in exploring this beautiful subculture in SL, you can start by looking up the various okiyas in-world.
These are some of the current okiyas holding events:
Nakanoshima Okiya
Blue Lotus Okiya
Pontocho Okiya
Amatsu Shima Okiya
Little Yoshiwara Okiya
Mitsuba Okiya
Karyukai Okiya
Nakamura Okiya
Furries and Nekos have their own special Okiya: Maneki Neko Okiya
Note: Patrons of various avatar types are welcome at all Okiya events unless they are a part of traditional RP sims. Which means they will require human avatars in traditional dress. However most are very relaxed on rules.
Most of the Geiko and Maiko speak English and they use translators. So don't be frightened if they greet you in Japanese. If you attend many of their events, you will soon be comfortable with Japanese greetings.
If you are interested in becoming an SL Geiko, it is best to start as a patron. Then you can observe the atmosphere and learn what is required of the role. To become an SL Geiko is a time consuming activity and it requires a lot of commitment. So a prospective Geiko must decide if she wants to dedicate most of her SL time to this job.
Don't be intimidated by the sims surrounding the okiyas in your initial information search. Everyone is very friendly and helpful so it won't be long before you can attend a party or Maiko debut.
