Somaro Maiko Teahouse

A restored Meiji-era teahouse in Sakata that preserves the Shonai region's surprising geisha culture, transplanted from Kyoto during the Kitamaebune trade era. Afternoon performances by Sakata maiko feature traditional dance and shamisen in a room of gold-leaf screens and lacquered floors. The building also houses art collections from Sakata's prosperous merchant past, including works by the Takeuchi school.