Japanese Instruments

Opening in August 2024 in the heart of Shinjuku, this groundbreaking non-verbal live entertainment venue reimagines traditional Japanese culture on an entirely new level. Experience the essence of Japan through an authentic cultural showcase, supervised by the world’s only official ninja organization—the Japan Ninja Council—and legendary Kabuki maestro Tanaka Fujijiro. Step into a breathtaking fusion of tradition and technology, where classical Japanese performing arts meet cutting-edge lighting and visual effects, transporting you to a world unlike anything you’ve seen before.

The UTAGE LIVE SHOW will not only feature familiar Japanese instruments such as taiko, shamisen, shakuhachi and shinobue, but also one of the largest and most powerful giant Japanese drums in the Kansai region (180 cm in diameter), which will not only perform but also enliven the audience with a variety of performances and visual elements. Guests will be invited on stage to experience the performance of the Japanese instruments and will also have the opportunity to participate in one of the songs in the show. Not only will the audience enjoy the music by ear but will also be enlivened with various visual elements. Venue address　Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, Minato Ward, Kaigandori 1-5-10

Based on Japanese musical instruments and dance music, various performers, such as sword fighters and lion dancers, perform a fusion, as the name suggests, of "appreciation" and the guests' own "participation" in this one-of-a-kind entertainment show. There is also a special programme for guests to touch and experience Japanese musical instruments. ※Please note that this show may contain content that is not suitable for all audiences, including explicit lyrics.

The show is 1 hour long and conveniently located only a few steps away from major tourist attractions. During the show, musicians will take small intermissions to talk about the musical instruments involved, give information about the history of the performed pieces, and interact with the audience. The Zakuro show will be easy to understand for both Japan residents and travelers. The show is Bilingual! Zakuro team will translate everything into English. Zakuro Show musicians play Japanese Harp (Koto), Japanese Base Harp, Japanese Flute (Shakuhachi), and Japanese drums (Taiko). Zakuro show has a small and cozy venue. Photos and videos are allowed, and you will also have a chance to take pictures together with musicians after the show.

Taiko is a traditional musical instrument that anyone can enjoy right away. The experience of practicing together, playing one song, and becoming one with others is one of the most valuable experiences in Japan. This studio's drums are made in the traditional way, by hollowing them out of a large single tree and they are very rare. You can enjoy real Japanese drums. The Taiko experience is not only an enjoyable musical experience, but it is also a full-body workout that relieves stress. The experience is suitable for all ages and levels of ability, so everyone can enjoy it. Since ancient times, Taiko has been deeply connected to the lives of the Japanese people. Through Taiko, you can learn about Japanese culture and history, as well as the spirituality of the Japanese people.

This experience is a private concert held in a cozy home, unlike the traditional townhouses and temples of Kyoto. Exclusively for one group, it offers a warm and intimate atmosphere, just like being in a Japanese family's home. The program begins with a brief introduction to the koto and shamisen, followed by a live performance featuring a diverse repertoire. Afterward, you’ll have time for a Q&A session and photo-taking. Additionally, only those who reserve the experience can participate in a hands-on koto session, where you’ll try playing a simple piece and experience its charm firsthand. Perfect for adventurous travelers and families, this private experience promises a unique and unforgettable time.

Experience a Sound Bath with Japanese musical instruments called "Singing Ring" made by Japanese traditional craft techniques. Singing Ring is one of the few acoustic instruments in the world that emits as many harmonics as can be measured by measuring equipments. Enjoy the world of "the one and only" sound that can only be experienced in Japan. You will experience the beauty and the depth of Japanese sounds. Experience a transformative sound journey that blends the therapeutic benefits of sound baths with the immersive qualities of ethnic music. Lie back and allow yourself to be enveloped by a rich soundscape that will transport you to a state of deep relaxation and inner peace. The sound bath session will be conducted for approximately 60 minutes. Following the session, participants will have the opportunity to experience playing the instruments. This experience filled with delicate and solemn sounds that reflect the spirit of Japan will surely be a lifetime memory of your trip.

A full experience of Japanese music — see it, hear it, play it! Kyoto “Otomonogatari (A Sound Journey)" Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich heritage through authentic performances by professional players of traditional instruments, known as “Hogaku.” This activity offers two unique opportunities to connect with Japan's history: 1. Enjoying a passionate and dynamic concert by professional musicians. 2. Participating in a hands-on experience of playing traditional Japanese instruments. During the concert, you will see a captivating and energetic performance by skilled artists, showcasing the beauty of traditional Japanese music. In the hands-on session, you can explore a variety of traditional Japanese instruments — try the ones that interest you the most. ・Shamisen ・Koto ・Wadaiko and more! You will receive basic guidance on how to handle the instrument and even have the chance to play a short section together with the group. Of course, there will be time for photography as well.

A full experience of Japanese music — see it, hear it, play it! Osaka “Otomonogatari (A Sound Journey)" Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich heritage through authentic performances by professional players of traditional instruments, known as “Hogaku.” This activity offers two unique opportunities to connect with Japan's history: 1. Enjoying a passionate and dynamic concert by professional musicians. 2. Participating in a hands-on experience of playing traditional Japanese instruments. During the concert, you will see a captivating and energetic performance by skilled artists, showcasing the beauty of traditional Japanese music. In the hands-on session, you can explore a variety of traditional Japanese instruments — try the ones that interest you the most. ・Shamisen ・Koto ・Wadaiko and more! You will receive basic guidance on how to handle the instrument and even have the chance to play a short section together with the group. Of course, there will be time for photography as well.

〇 It's a luxurious private live! A performer will play the traditional Japanese instruments just for you. Please enjoy the sounds of Koto-Japanese harp and feel the world of Koto up close. 〇 Sit in a chair and enjoy yourself. You can sit on a chair and relax in the shop which is a renovated Kyomachiya-traditional Japanese house. Why don't you hold a hidden concert just for you in the atmosphere of local Kyoto, which is different from the tourist spots? 〇Enjoy the sounds of authentic Japanese musical instruments. Why don't you feel the splendor of traditional Japanese music at your leisure?

Experience the tea ceremony and immerse yourself in the traditions of Kyoto. Brew a delicious cup of tea in an authentic and vibrant Japanese atmosphere. With careful instruction, you will be able to make a creamy matcha tea like no other. At the same time, you will enjoy a live performance of Japanese harp "Koto", a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.

This koto workshop takes place in a peaceful location surrounded by the Takase and Kamo rivers in Kyoto, where you can experience a calming moment while immersing yourself in the beautiful sound of the koto. This small group experience allows participants to receive personalized, detailed instruction from the instructor, making it easy for beginners to join and feel at ease. Additionally, you’ll have the rare opportunity to hear a live performance by a professional instructor up close and experience her playing techniques firsthand. By the end of the workshop, every participant will have mastered one piece. Experience the charm of the koto and get a sense of accomplishment by mastering a song.

Shape and craft your own customized knife. Choose the design, sharpen the blade, use traditional instruments. A unique indoor activity in the heart of Tokyo featuring beautiful Japanese art of making knifes!

Discover the enchanting world of the Japanese melodica, also known as the kenban harmonica, in this engaging hands-on experience. Perfect for all ages, this session introduces participants to the rich history of Japanese music and its instruments. You’ll learn about the melodica’s unique sounds and try your hand at playing this delightful instrument, even if you have no musical background. Create gentle melodies and unexpected tunes as you immerse yourself in Japan’s vibrant musical culture, leaving with cherished memories and newfound skills.

Your first experience with the koto is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of music and traditional Japanese culture. You can learn how to play koto with a professional licensed instructor who is licensed as an Ikuta-ryu teacher. This is a small group lesson with a capacity of 2 people for one lesson. After a brief introduction about the koto, you will get sheet music of anime songs or hit tunes, and play your own favorite songs. The sound of the koto will give a new charm to your performance, and it will be very moving. We will deliver valuable time that can only be experienced in Japan to tourists visiting Japan.

Owner is a professional Koto performer, so you can learn from expert instructors. Here you can experience playing the koto, which is a traditional Japanese instrument and indispensable for formal ceremonies in Japan. A professional player of koto will teach you how to play the koto. We will teach you to play “Sakura“. Everyone from 3 years old to elderly people can play, so we encourage you to experience this with your family together. Equipment necessary for lessons, such as musical instruments and music notation are all available.

Looking for an evening entertainment in Kyoto? Experience an unforgettable evening in Kyoto with our hassle-free evening bus tour. Enjoy a mesmerizing maiko performance while savoring an authentic Kyoto-style Kaiseki dinner. After pickup at Kyoto Station, the bus will transport you to the renowned Shozan Resort Kyoto. Here, you'll be treated to a captivating maiko dinner show. A maiko is an apprentice geiko (distinct from a geisha) in Kyoto, skilled in performing traditional songs, dances, and playing Japanese instruments to entertain guests. After the show, take a leisurely stroll through the Japanese garden and admire the traditional architecture. The tour also includes a brief stop at Higashiyama-sancho Park, famous for its enchanting night views of Kyoto. The tour concludes with drop-offs at Kyoto Station or select hotels: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto, and Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande. Join us for an evening of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

Let's play "Koto", Japanese traditional stringed instrument! Come join to my class of "Koto" . You can enjoy Japanese culture with experience by playing a traditional instrument in Odawara city. Odawara is a castle town, and easy to access before / after visiting Hakone. The outline of this experience is as below -Explanation about a Koto -Instruction how to play the Koto by using special attachment nails -Try playing the Koto -Performance playing the Koto by the instructor -Photo session I am qualified to teach Koto.

This experience can enjoy traditional music, culture and architecture at the same time. Shamisen is a Japanese traditional instrument. The sounds play by the thirteen strings are very beautiful and elegant. I will teach you how to play a Koto. Since I teach it from the basics, even a beginner is fine. We will practice the traditional Japanese song. After the experience, it is tea time with green tea and traditional sweets. While enjoying drinking tea, you can enjoy traditional Japanese manners. The venue is a very precious traditional Kyoto architectural residence. Because it is a private residence, travelers can not usually enter. Only experience guests can enter the house specially.

The shamisen is a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument, known as the Japanese banjo. The Tsugaru shamisen, the most popular type of shamisen, produces a deep, earth-shaking tone. Enjoy a performance by a master who won the group championship in the Tsugaru Shamisen World Tournament and experience playing the instrument. Explore the intriguing world of traditional Japanese music with the shamisen. Discover how one of the most distinctive sounds in Japanese culture is produced, and learn the basic steps to playing a tsuguru shamisen, a three-stringed musical instrument similar to a guitar.