Immerse Yourself in Traditional Japanese Music Through Koto Lessons
Discover the enchanting sounds of Japan’s traditional music in the cultural heart of Kyoto.
Our Koto Lesson Experience offers a unique opportunity to not only hear the delicate and powerful melodies of this iconic instrument but also to learn how to play it yourself. Under the guidance of a professional musician, you’ll receive personalized instruction in an intimate setting, allowing you to connect deeply with Japan’s rich musical heritage.
Whether you are a seasoned musician or new to traditional Japanese music, this lesson provides an unforgettable, hands-on experience that will deepen your appreciation for this beautiful art form.
About the Concert & Koto Lesson Experience
Our program is thoughtfully curated to highlight the rich and varied soundscapes of the koto and shamisen. During the concert, you’ll enjoy traditional pieces that demonstrate the expressive range of these instruments. This blend of classical Japanese music offers a fresh and accessible introduction to traditional music.
Each piece in the concert will be preceded by a brief explanation from Aoi, providing context and cultural insights. Following each performance, Aoi will announce the piece’s title, inviting the audience to applaud if they enjoyed it.
In addition to the concert, you can participate in a koto lesson where you will learn to play this iconic Japanese instrument. Aoi will guide you through the basics, offering hands-on instruction to help you connect with the music on a deeper level. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, this lesson provides a unique opportunity to engage with Japan’s musical heritage.
Program
| Program | Details |
|---|---|
| Admission starts | Take your seats and prepare for the concert in a traditional Kyoto private house. |
| Program starts | We are beginning the concert program. |
| Explanation | We will explain the instruments and pieces, sharing their journey and passion for music. |
| Performance | Enjoy timeless pieces such as ‘Chidori no Kyoku’ and ‘Kajimakura’, with explanations of each piece’s history and the characteristics of the instruments used. |
| Q&A Time | A chance to ask questions directly to the musician about the performance, the instruments, or any other related topics. |
| Break and preparation | During the break, we will prepare the koto for the hands-on experience and provide a restroom break. |
| Koto Experience | Experience playing the koto with guidance from the staff and musicians. |
Suggested Routes: Combining Kyoto’s Top Attractions with Our Koto and Shamisen Concert
To help you plan your visit, we’ve listed some popular Kyoto attractions along with their proximity to our concert venue. These suggestions make it easy to incorporate the Koto and Shamisen Concert into your day.
| Route | Key Attractions | Access to Concert Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Arashiyama | Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, Monkey Park | Nishi-Oji Sanjo Station (20 minutes by train to/from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Randen Line) |
| Nijo Castle | Nijo Castle | Nishi-Oji Sanjo Station (20 minutes by train to/from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Randen Line) |
| Kinkaku-ji | Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ryoan-ji Temple | Nishi-Oji Sanjo Station (20 minutes by train to/from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Randen Line) |
Access
