MORIOKA -- The head of a local geisha supporters' group in this northeastern Japan city has sparked controversy by saying, "After all, it's men who call for geisha. It's only natural for them to prefer the young, isn't it?"

Kunihisa Yamura, head of the Morioka geigi (geisha) supporters' association, made the remark during an April 8 press conference for the recruitment of "maiko," or geisha apprentices aspiring to become geisha, who perform traditional dances and songs at functions in Morioka. Yamura's comment came in response to a question about the age restriction for applicants -- women between 18 and 24 years old.

Yamura also serves as president of the Morioka Chamber of Commerce and Industry and chairperson of Michinoku Coca-Cola Bottling Co.

Regarding Yamura's remarks, Iwate Gov. Takuya Tasso expressed understanding of the age restriction during an April 11 regular press conference, stating, "Even if one cannot sing or dance now, there is a course offering training to become a geigi. It is not age discrimination. As a business, targeting young people in human resource development is acceptable." However, he also commented on Yamura's statement, "I think he spoke about the benefits of youth on the spot, but he later acknowledged it was a mistake, and I agree with him."

(Japanese original by Hideyuki Yamada, Morioka Bureau)

Gist of Yamura's remarks on geisha recruitment

- "When inviting geisha to parties to perform, it's generally men who are the inviters. While veteran geisha are also appreciated, naturally, men tend to prefer younger people."

- "After all, it's men who call for geisha. It's only natural for them to prefer the young, isn't it? It's not that older individuals are not appreciated; the art of senior performers is remarkable."