Authentic Koto Experience in Odawara Castle Town (Near Tokyo)
Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Discover the authentic sounds of the "Koto", Japanese traditional stringed instrument!
Come join to my class. Anyone, even a complete beginner, can enjoy playing beautiful sounds.
When you join this class, you won't just play the ”Koto"; you'll also feel Japanese history and culture.
The outline of this experience is as below
-Explanation about "Koto"
-Instruction how to play "Koto" by using special attachment nails
-Try playing "Koto"
-Performance by the instructor
-Photo session
I am qualified to teach Koto.
Odawara, a historic castle town, is my hometown.
I created this experience activity because I want to share the joy of experience traditional Japanese music right here in this historic city.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
You will take off shoes when you enter the place for the music lesson
During the activity, you will have Japanese style sitting posture "seiza". If you are not comfortable it, let me know. I prepare chairs.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
You will learn about history and basic information of a Koto. Then you have lesson how to play it. And you can also enjoy performance by the instructor and have a photo session.
What‘s Included
Rental fee of Koto(instrument) and tools for play it.
Instruction fee
Private transportation
Options
Japanese Traditional Music Experience
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
a very satisfying cultural experience
Lucy B,Jan 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My traditional Japanese music experience in Odawara was truly beyond my expectations. I was thoroughly taught about the history and basic knowledge of the Koto, and was supported so that even beginners could quickly produce beautiful sounds. I also had the opportunity to listen to the instructor's performance, and while I was surprised by the sound, it was beyond my imagination and deeply soothing. This was my first time playing the Koto, but the instructor's explanations were very easy to understand, and he taught me slowly and carefully, so I felt at ease and comfortable participating. The session covered everything from the basics to the actual melody, and I was thrilled when I finally played "Sakura." It was a rare opportunity to experience traditional culture firsthand. The venue was within walking distance of Odawara Station, and the atmosphere of taking off your shoes and sitting down was very Japanese, which I enjoyed. It was a very satisfying cultural experience, and was enjoyable for both beginners and experienced players. The instructor's hospitality was also excellent, making it especially recommended for travelers seeking a truly Japanese experience.
Dreamy Magical Experience!
Yuki O,Oct 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Finally I could experience Koto thanks to Akiko! I usually play bass and ukulele and such an avid fan of musical instruments especially the strings. The sound of Koto was specially lustrous and beautiful, and I wanted to be surrounded by forever. The level was perfect for me finishing up the famous Sakura song easy version in 1 hour. And Akiko's performance was .. WOW! So professional! I was so lucky to be able to see it so close. The venue is very traditional and registered tangible cultural property, so the atmosphere really fits Koto lesson. I could even put on Kimono and take photo and movie while I was playing the Koto. The Japanese local sweets were amazing, too. Thank you for everything, Akiko!
Fun experience!
Yuki O,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was first time for me to actually see, know and touch the Japanese instrument; Koto. For me as 8 years old, it was challenging but so much fun. Akiko sensei taught me one by one and step by step. Thank you!
Inspiring experience
Lucia G,Jun 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Truly inspiring experience for our family girl trip (Mum, 70, me, 49 and daughter, 11). Akiko made us feel very welcome and was very patient, adapting the song to our level - I couldn't believe how beautiful it sounded even as absolute begginners. Koto is such an amazing instrument and it was fantastic to experience a different aspect of japanese culture, away from the tourist areas. We felt truly welcome and it was a delight to watch her play with such elegance. Highly recommended!
Fun lesson for beautiful music
Kyoko Y,Apr 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I really enjoyed learning how to play Koto. At the beginning it looked difficult but she picked an easy piece and taught me an easy move that would make me look like a professional player. Her lesson was full of fun and also educational. I think it’s a rare opportunity and I highly recommend her lesson.
From ¥7,000
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