Maiko Tyaya Somaro, Takehisa Yumeji Museum

Somairou was opened after renovating the famous ryotei (Japanese-style restaurant) Somaya, which has been around since the days when Kitamae-bune ships used to come and go.

When you walk up the stone-paved Maimusume-zaka slope, the vermilion walls and thatched roof stand out. The fan-shaped stone pavement is also tasteful, and the appearance is reminiscent of the days when the restaurant flourished as a ryotei.

The inside of the building is also covered with red carpets, and delicate craftsmanship can be seen here and there, such as sliding doors decorated with ink paintings and drawings, and ceramic pulls. There is also a room displaying works by Takehisa Yumeji, famous for his paintings of beautiful women. Immerse yourself in the lyrical world of Takehisa Yumeji.

The hall on the second floor is where the Sakata Mai Musume dance performance is held. The performance can be viewed daily from 2:00 pm. The program includes three songs, including “Sakata Jinku,” a song about Sakata when the city was crowded with Kitamae ships. Please enjoy the gorgeous performance of the dancers to the fullest.

After the performance, you can take a commemorative photo with the dancing girls. Maiko Gozen, a popular lunch menu (reservations required at least two days in advance), is also available while enjoying the dancing of Sakata maiko.

Those who cannot attend the performance due to time constraints can order a drink and take a commemorative photo with Maiko.

Every year from March to early April, dolls brought in on the Kitamae-bune are on special display. The dolls are gorgeous and gorgeous, with kimonos dyed with safflowers and finely crafted headdresses that have been carefully passed down from generation to generation.