Chishō Takaoka

Chishō Takaoka was a geisha in Shinbashi who became a Buddhist nun later in life. Her stage name was Chiyoha (千代葉) or Teruha (照葉), while her real name was Tatsuko Takaoka (高岡たつ子). She became famous for her radiant beauty, and for chopping off one of her fingers for her lover. She was a popular model featured in postcards, and was known internationally as the "Nine-Fingered Geisha". She also inspired Jakucho Setouchi's novel, Jotoku.