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
/ 5
81 traveller ratings
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Shamisen in Kyoto
E3316YJdavidk, Dec 2025
This was a wonderful experience. Very simple to book online. I travelled to the dojo by bike which was easy to find. Jack is an accomplished player and a skilled teacher. He is calm and encouraging. The 90 minute lesson went by quickly and I left with a deeper appreciation for an instrument I had little knowledge of before visiting Japan. A great way to mark New Year’s Eve in Kyoto. Thank you Jack!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Having a wonderful guest like you at the end of the year felt like a real gift for Shamisen Dojo. The way you casually rode your bike to the dojo and headed off again, just like it was your regular class, showed how experienced you are as a traveler—and how comfortable you are in Kyoto. I’d be very happy if we could meet again someday in Australia. Please give my best regards to your family. Jack
Amazing instructor
A1370XUeliasd, Dec 2025
Me and my family came into the Dojo, all of us except my dad had no experience on any instruments. Jack changed that quick, me and my family got the hang of the shamisen quick, and learned to play many songs! The dojo looks really nice too. Everything about this place was amazing, but Jack was what made it amazing. And to anybody reading this, check out the music he produces, it’s amazing!
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you so much for the wonderful review! It was my first time ever receiving a request for an original piece, and it truly made me happy. What creates the special atmosphere of the dojo isn’t me — it’s you and everyone else’s passion for the shamisen and Japanese culture. Let’s meet again somewhere in the world. I wish you and your family a truly wonderful year ahead. Jack
MUST READ
Y9943YDderekr, Dec 2025
I'm going to stop you right there cause you gotta listen to the tale of the legendary Shamisen sensei. Patient, disciplines and skillful in the art of teaching to play such a delightful instrument. Japan has many options for instruments, but the strokes of the cords of the shamisen rival any instrument in the west. Don't miss out on the opportunity of finding a new passion.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thank you for a wonderful reveiw! By the way, I never expected to run into you at the Ninja Dojo too! I could feel how enthusiastic you were, so I decided to make it a two-hour lesson—but even then, it felt like you still wanted more. I was truly impressed by your attitude toward learning. Next time, meeting again in Costa Rica sounds like it could be a lot of fun! Jack
THE Shamisen sensei
Derek_R, Dec 2025
Jack-san is an excellent sensei. Took his time teaching me the basics and even taught advanced things he normally wouldn't. If you wish to try your skills and taste japanese traditional music. This is you sensei!
Experience
Highlights
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
- Rental Shamisen and Accesarres
- Tea and coffee
- Demonstration by a professional instructor
- 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.