Kyoto Shamisen Private Experience
Free Cancellation
5.0 (87)
from
EUR 80.00

2 hours


E-voucher


Multiple

Overview

Learn a new skill while visiting Kyoto—how to plan a traditional three-stringed Japanese instrument called a “shamisen”. Rather than sharing the lesson with lots of people, this is a private lesson, which means you can benefit from the teacher’s undivided attention and one-to-one guidance. During the lesson, get plenty of expert tips, and learn to play a traditional Japanese song.

Operated by

Shamisen Dojo

Ratings & Reviews

Average Rating

5

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Amazing shamisen lesson!

tanyanB7570IE, Apr 2026

Jack is such an awesome teacher and so good at putting you at ease. We had a great time learning the basics of this amazing instrument!

Cosy Dojo. Cool sounds.

877jalenj, Apr 2026

It was a fun and chill smooth experience. The lesson was easy to follow and Jack was a good teacher. The Dojos aesthetics are calm and cosy.

Do this if you're in Kyoto. If you're not going to be in Kyoto, change your plans, go to Kyoto, and do this.

trevorcK4448HW, Mar 2026

My wife and I had incredible experiences every single day of our trip to Japan, and this was honestly the standout favorite for both of us. Jack is super friendly, easy to have a conversation with, and most of all is a fantastic instructor! He taught us fundamental scales used in various regions and eras of Japan which felt like we were really engaging with part of the musical culture and history of Japan. Each one he'd show the scale ascending and descending, then would shred some improv showing the emotions each scale could evoke. By the end of the lesson we were doing improv solos of our own (admittedly much less impressive than his). We also learned some traditional Japanese songs perfect for beginners (we've both had Sakura stuck in our heads since we left the Dojo). Jack went above and beyond our expectations, and we both plan on doing online lessons with him in the future.

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Response from Host, Mar 2026

It was only 90 minutes, but the lesson with you will remain a lifelong memory for me. I truly felt the spirit of real international exchange in the way you respected Japanese culture while also sharing your own culture with me. I’m really looking forward to teaching you another traditional Japanese piece next time! Jack

Better than I imagined!!

floydk944, Mar 2026

This lesson and experience was even better then if I imagined it myself. Jack is an experienced teacher and player and keeps the lesson geared toward instruction AND fun at the same time! I can see anyone wanting to learn and play a literally in a living Japanese art form would love this experience. Now I think I am hooked on this instrument thanks to Jack!

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Response from Host, Mar 2026

Floyd, that was an incredible jam session. Thanks so much for the amazing review—I really appreciate it. When we got into the folk scale, I was honestly surprised by how quickly you got into your element and started firing off those cool phrases. It was seriously impressive. There are plenty more cool scales and ideas I’d love to share with you, so let’s definitely continue the lesson next time! Jack

Meeting Point Map

Location

Address

11-8 Murasakino Nakakashiwanochō, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8312, Japan

Open Google Map

Experience

Highlights

  • Swap sightseeing for a chance to learn how to play a traditional instrument
  • No experience required: Enjoy a beginner-friendly lesson just for you
  • Stay hydrated: The lesson includes a Japanese tea break
  • Receive a special gift—a souvenir to remember your experience
  • Inclusions

    • Souvenir ; Take home a small, unique souvenir to commemorate your experience.
    • Samue ; to further immerse yourself in the experience, you will wear traditional samue.
    • Photo/video session
    • Demonstration by a professional instructor
    • Tea and coffee
    • Rental Shamisen and Accesarres
    • A demonstration performance by the instructor

    Additional Information

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Guide Languages

    • English

    • Japanese

    Cancellation Policy

    • A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    • No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    from
    EUR 80.00