A houkan (幇間) is a traditional Japanese male entertainer, often known as a “male geisha” or taikomochi. The term houkan itself signifies someone who “helps” or “assists” within human relationships, particularly in social settings. These individuals primarily perform at banquets and gatherings, working to entertain guests and ensure a lively atmosphere. They are distinct from female geisha, who focus on graceful and elegant performances through dance, song, and music.
The Purpose and Significance of Houkan
The purpose of a houkan is to facilitate a pleasant and engaging environment at social events. Their role involves acting as intermediaries, helping foster good relations among guests and between guests and geisha, ensuring the smooth flow of a banquet. This involves a blend of storytelling, humor, and conversation, making them skilled at engaging audiences.
Historically, houkan provided entertainment and advice to their feudal lords, even participating in discussions about military strategies. They also advised on important matters. The presence of a houkan contributed to entertainment and relationship building in Japanese culture, strengthening bonds among the samurai class.
Forms and Appearance of Houkan
A houkan is an individual performer, rather than a physical object like a plaque or tablet. Instead, their “form” relates to their performance style and attire. Houkan traditionally wear stylish kimonos, similar to geisha, befitting their role as entertainers in formal settings.
Their artistry is demonstrated through their repertoire, which includes singing, dancing, storytelling, and engaging guests in wordplay and games. While the term taikomochi literally means “drum holder,” not all houkan used drums; the name also implied a sense of flattery or entertainment.
The Practice of Offering Houkan
The concept of “offering” a houkan does not apply in the same way one might offer a dedicatory plaque or a physical item. Instead, individuals “engage” or “hire” a houkan for an event. This practice typically involves inviting them to entertain at private gatherings, banquets, or “ozashiki” (geisha parties).
Their services contribute to the overall enjoyment and success of the social occasion. Houkan continue to perform at various events, including home parties, and also give lectures to share the history and culture of their profession.
Historical and Cultural Roots of Houkan
The origins of houkan, or taikomochi, trace back to the 13th century in Japan. They initially served as attendants to feudal lords (daimyo). These men, also known as doboshu or “comrades,” advised and entertained their lords.
By the 16th century, they evolved into otogishu or hanashishu, focusing on storytelling and humor. With the advent of more peaceful times in the 17th century, their role shifted from advisors to pure entertainers. Many found employment with oiran, high-class Japanese courtesans.
While male houkan were the original geisha, female geisha emerged in the 18th century and eventually outnumbered them. Despite their declining numbers, houkan continue to preserve their traditional art form, demonstrating the enduring value placed on skilled entertainment and social facilitation in Japanese culture.