LIVE MUSIC · JAPAN
Koto and shamisen in Kyoto townhouses, kabuki in Asakusa, and traditional programmes built for a small room. These 15 shows come with the running time and the price.
Hear Kyoto’s koto and shamisen in a tiny townhouse or resonant bathhouse, with live music, artist Q&A, and an optional koto lesson.
“The performer was incredible, the hosts were super kind and welcoming, and the workshop was so much fun! Highly recommend!”
See Carmen reborn as an Edo-era oiran in Asakusa, where Kabuki, opera, subtitles, music, and audience interaction meet.
“You sometimes wonder if some reviews are true. I booked this because the reviews are amazing. There are no stars below 4. I decided to book it. What a wonderful experience. And the reviews are absolutely well deserved.”
Hear koto, shamisen, shakuhachi, and taiko in an intimate Tokyo concert with English explanations, photos, and a surprise cover song.
“Amazing musicians! Such a wonderful concert, they take the time to you about the instruments as well. They are so talented, and the host is great as well. Plus, they played a "Surprise" song which really made the show even more special :) Highly recommend!”
See Kyoto’s traditional music up close, then play shamisen, koto, wadaiko, and more in this friendly one-hour hands-on show.
“Fun and great information. The hands on portion was cool too! It was cool to see them play the instruments, sing, and allow us to participate in some songs. The hands on part was fun where we were able to play the instruments and guideRead more”
Review of Kyoto’s intimate koto and shamisen concert, with live music, Q&A, photos, and an optional hands-on koto session.
“The best experience we’ve had in Kyoto. A stunning intimate performance which offered insight into traditional Japanese music and instruments. We would highly recommend to anyone visiting Kyoto to attend this experience”
Hear professional koto and shamisen music, learn to play the koto, and enjoy a private Kyoto concert in a cozy old Japanese home.
“The place was not too difficult to find (i go by taxi), but the alley was very dark, and we had to wait outside till 5 minutes before the show. The performer is very professional and played both instruments beautifully and skillfully, using different techniques that produced different timbre. Enjoyed the evening very much.”
Hear shamisen, koto, and wadaiko in Osaka, then play the instruments yourself during this friendly one-hour cultural experience.
“I was surprised to be able to hear such beautiful Japanese instruments being played up close. What's more, I had the rare experience of actually playing the instruments! I had a lot of fun by myself, and I'd like to go again with friends”
Pair Asakusa’s famous temple sights with dinner, a welcome drink, and powerful shamisen music in this intimate three-hour evening tour.
“Wow, the most super night ever. Our guide was amazing & her knowledge fantastic. Our dinner had us bursting at the sides both with food & laughter! Best food & music we’ve had. Music professionals at their best we were so privileged & thankful for their expertise. Thanks you so very much, highly recommended to all tourists & locals!”
Review of Kyoto’s koto, violin, matcha, and anime music experience, with practical details on price, timing, venue, value, and who should book.
“This experience was one of my highlights in Kyoto, I've had the chance with my friend to attend this amazing music moment, with artists that have been training since childhood playing instruments they love, they are so good! We also shared an unforgettable moment with the family over a tea ceremony. Do not hesitate to go, it's worth it!”
Explore Asakusa, see a live Tsugaru shamisen concert, and enjoy Japanese dinner in a small group with guides and a welcome drink.
“Great tour of Asakusa and the Senso-JI temple from Akiko. The music concert was great and gave us a little taste of Japanese culture (as did the dinner). Very enjoyable and informative!”
Hear a live koto near Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, learn its story, and reflect on peace through classical, modern, and original music.
“He was charming - his PowerPoint presentation was excellent and so interesting - it was great being in his studio. Lovely music. He needs to put a clearer sign outside the building so you can find him more easily. I would have liked more music about peace as was promised in the advert.”
Hear koto and shamisen in Kyoto’s renovated Kujo-yu bathhouse, a one-hour concert with unusual acoustics near Kyoto Station.
“A fun unique experience to add to your itinerary!! The bathhouse is stunning and it was such a unique way to learn about and listen to traditional japanese instruments!”
Hear koto and kokyu in a private Kyoto townhouse concert, with close-up music, instrument stories, and a chance to play.
“My family thoroughly enjoyed this concert. The music was beautiful and the musician was accomplished. At the end of the concert, my kids were encouraged and allowed to try the instruments. Both ladies were kind and friendly and made for a very pleasant afternoon.”
Make a mini shamisen, learn simple songs, enjoy tea and live music in a friendly two-hour workshop near Tokorozawa.
“This is truly an excellent, one of a kind, experience. It’s beginner friendly, and the teacher is kind, patient, and passionate about music. As well as helping you make a shamisen to keep, the teacher explains a lot about the history of the shamisRead more”
Learn to play Japan’s powerful Tsugaru shamisen in a private Tokyo workshop with a championship musician, performance, and hands-on lesson.
“We had a great time! We learned a lot about the shamisen and were able to learn a simple song. We also learned some harder techniques. The instructor is very patient and played some amazing pieces.”
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