Hana yori Hana (More Beautiful Than Flowers) - Paperback – March 1, 2009 By Minako (Author) 9784391136494 Price: 1300 yen + tax No obi (paper band), cover shows signs of wear such as scratches, creases, fraying, and tears at the corners. The text is relatively clean. Due to being a used item, there may be sun damage, stains, scratches, and tears. This is a rare item and is priced higher than the original retail price, so please purchase with your understanding. After packaging, the item will be shipped via Yu-Mail, Yu-Packet, or Click Post, etc. In the case of Yu-Mail, delivery is generally by postal drop-off, with delivery only on weekdays, no delivery on Saturdays, Sundays, or holidays, and no tracking number. No comments needed, immediate purchase is OK. Negotiations for price reductions are not accepted. B250412 [Product Details] The beautiful Yoshiwara of the pre-war era, retaining the atmosphere of the Edo and Meiji periods. The Tokyo air raid, where she survived the falling incendiary bombs. And the abolition of the "red-light district" in Showa 33 (1958)... This is the tearful and laughter-filled life story of Yoshiwara geisha, Minako-nee-san, who lived her life earnestly, dedicated to her art, through a turbulent era. "Yoshiwara geisha" were the only officially recognized geisha, endorsed by the Edo shogunate. The last person to uphold the traditions of the Yoshiwara geisha, who boasted the best art and status in Edo and Tokyo, is the author of this book, Minako-nee-san. She recounts her eventful life, incorporating the traditional arts and customs of Yoshiwara that only she knows. The Yoshiwara dialogue with musician Shibun Yanagiya is also noteworthy.