Shamisen Discovery in Kyoto 【Group】
Overview
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Against the 90-minuets authentic class, this 60-minuets class allows for a casual approach in everyday clothing, focusing on enjoyment and skipping the more complex explanations.
This class is designed for those who have never played an instrument before or who have limited time and budget.
A professional instructor will guide you through a fun and engaging session! Let's fun together!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
This experience will be the perfect introduction to Shamisen culture for you. You can gain a concise understanding of its history and playing techniques from a professional instructor with over 20 years of experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to freely session with the instructor using the five signature sounds of Japan. While individuals are more than welcome, bringing friends along will make the experience even more enjoyable. What’s included in the 60-minute course: ・An introduction to basic information about the Shamisen (types, history, etc.) ・A photo session holding a Shamisen ・A lesson on basic Shamisen playing techniques ・Introduction to one Shamisen scale ・Free time to play the Shamisen freely ・A jam session where the instructor provides accompaniment, and participants can freely create melodies Additionally, we have lefty Shamisen available for left-handed players.
What‘s Included
Rental shamisen
Green Tea
Photo-session with the Shamisen you like
Private transportation
Options
Shamisen Discovery in Kyoto 【Group】
Reviews
26 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Awesome class!
Jeffrey C,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The instructor was great and easy to talk to! We had a great time learning from him and he made the introduction to this beautiful instrument very simple, and we had so much fun playing music together. This is definitely something every visitor in Kyoto should put on their itinerary!
11 of of 10
B4434BQjonathant,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely phenomenal experience! I’d no doubt do this again in a heart beat!
Favorite Experience in Japan
amypG7588XO,Dec 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The group Shamisen lesson with my sister was my favorite experience in Kyoto. Jack was a great guide. He taught us shamisen history, proper form for holding the instrument and bachi, several Japanese scales, and by the end of the lesson, my sister and I were able to play a whole song together. Shamisen Dojo is about a 15 minute walk from Kinkaku-ji temple. It worked perfectly to visit the temple in the morning and then make it to our 1pm lesson in the afternoon. Please don’t hesitate to book this incredible experience!!
Such an unique experience!
issabelem2014,Oct 30, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I always loved the shamisen and to be able to learn it and from such a knowledgeable and good teacher it was a great experience! Myself and my partner really enjoyed it and it was the highlight of our Kyoto trip for sure. I definitely recommend if you’re interested in music or just want to experience something unique while in Kyoto.
Unique music experience in Kyoto with a great instructor
chapuism2025,Oct 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Unique experiece in Kyoto, outside of crowded venues. Jack is an amazing instructor and time flies quickly while learning the beauty of shamisen. Can't recommend this experience enough.
An experience we’ll never forget
Wander59965640882,Aug 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had so much fun during the workshop. Jack is an amazing music teacher (and very inspiring musician) who really tunes in with his students. He will guide you step by step. We enjoyed it very much. So don’t hesitate and book this lesson when you want to give yourself an experience you’ll never forget!
Wonderful music lesson!
864priyankaa,Jul 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was such a lovely experience, highly recommend both to those with a music background and those without! The instructor is so kind and gentle and we were able to play through a song by the end of the hour. As a westerner trained in classical music it was really interesting to see how Japanese traditional music compares and learn a new style of playing. I would definitely do this again on another trip to Kyoto! Thank you so much.
So fun! Perfect hands on activity!
Q7348MWjeremyt,Jun 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My 17-year-old son and I had an amazing experience with Jack. He truly is a master! He played a bit for us and we were blown away. Compared to the many other tours and activities we’ve been doing over the past two weeks in Japan, this ranks near the top for fun, hands on, and feel good.
A Wonderful Introduction to the Art of Shamisen
53janik,Jun 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience was amazing and great learning moment! Jack is excellent teacher, very polite and fun. Recommending!
Lovely musical experience with a wonderful Sensei!
692udays,Jun 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jack Sensei is incredible! His love for music and dedication to his craft shines through in every aspect of the lesson. He was quickly able gauge my understanding and adapt the session accordingly. He was also knowledgeable and enthusiastic about Indian Classical music in addition to Shamisen, which made it a very interesting conversation as well. I just wish I could have done the full 90 minute experience!!
From ¥10,000
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by Shamisen Dojo