Sadayakko (1871–1946) was Japan’s most celebrated and beautiful geisha, and the first to enjoy international adulation. From a successful career as a geisha, she married an actor and joined him on stage touring America and Europe from 1899 to 1902.

When composing Madame Butterfly, Puccini is said to have been inspired by the melodies played by her company. She became so popular that sophisticated ladies sought to purchase a ‘Sadayakko kimono’.