The word Geisha is derived from ‘Gei’, which in Japanese means performance or entertainer, and ‘sha’, which means person, and dates back 400 years ago to the 'Edo' period.

During the early 11th century, two women of noble birth created a new dance to entertain the warrior's circles. Representing the court dress of the warriors, they wore white costumes. They wore a tall hat, long white gown, and sword at their waist. The dance caught on and over time the costume changed to a black hat and red skirt. Then both the hat and sword disappeared. Many people believe that these women were the early predecessors of geisha However, others believe geisha were originally men who entertained in a society called the "water world." This world contained prostitutes, entertainers and their patrons. Eventually, there was a transformation from all male geisha to all female geisha. After geisha became more popular, they began entertaining in tea houses and began defining what was in, in Japanese culture. In 1779, authorities were angry with the conduct of the geisha. They were upset that they did not pay taxes on their wages. Disciplinary rules were formed and a code of conduct was created, which is still upheld today.

The importance of Geisha most likely originates from ancient religious practices. The nineteenth century saw the development of many of the dances that are now the most common dances performed by Geisha at both private parties and public events such as festivals. Dances such as the Miyako Odori and the cherry dances, dances that originate in the Japanese cultural value of Cherry Blossoms, arise out of the nineteenth century.

The shamisen is a lute-like instrument made out of redwood with three strings of braided silk attached to the arm by three large ivory pegs. The wooden body is backed with parchment. The instrument is played with an ivory or hardwood plectrum. The playing of the shamisen dates back to T'ang China when the instrument was given as a gift from the T'ang court to Japanese Buddhist envoys.

Before discussing matters of appearance in Geisha, it is important to note the significance of the color red. There is a word in Japanese, ko itten, which means "touch of scarlet." The word is used as an affectionate term for women, especially Geisha girls. The use of the color red in dress and makeup is very significant to Japanese society. Red is denoted as a color of beauty and happiness.