Koto Experience in Nagoya | A 90-Minute Private Lesson with a Professional Player

Learn the koto from a professional player at Koto Chikage in Nagoya

Your lesson takes place at Koto Chikage, located in Nishi Ward, Nagoya. Run by the Ikuta-ryu Sokyoku Chikage no Kai (an Ikuta-school koto music group), this cultural experience studio lets you learn how to play the koto directly from a professional player.

This plan includes a private lesson of about 90 minutes. Instruction is given in English, and the koto and the equipment used for playing are provided at the venue.

Even if you're curious about traditional Japanese music, chances are you rarely get to touch the instruments themselves. Why not add a koto-playing experience to your Nagoya trip?

First, get to know the koto and the equipment you'll use

The koto is an instrument with strings stretched over a long, narrow wooden body, played with finger picks called kotozume. The white bridges that support the strings are known as ji.

The instrument and accessories are lent to you during the lesson, so there's nothing you need to prepare yourself. Your teacher will walk you through the basics so you're ready to make your first sounds.

Next, pluck the koto strings yourself

Under the guidance of a professional player, you'll touch the picks to the strings and produce sound. Watch closely as your teacher demonstrates the finger movements, then try them yourself.

Because the lesson is private, you can ask questions on the spot as you practice. If a movement feels tricky, your teacher can watch your hands and help, and you'll repeat the technique you've just learned.

The koto is a sound many people have heard, but in this lesson you get to create it with your own hands.

FAQ

■ Can I join if I've never played the koto? Yes. This lesson teaches the basic playing technique with a professional player. Beginners can practice while checking their hand movements.

■ Do I need to bring my own instrument or equipment? No. The koto and the accessories needed for playing are provided. Please bring a pair of socks, and check the information sent after booking for other clothing and items to bring.

■ What language is the lesson taught in? The lesson is taught in English.

■ How long does it take? About 90 minutes. Please confirm the start time when you book.

■ Where is the meeting point? Koto Chikage, 1-1-17 Kaminagoya, Nishi Ward, Nagoya. Please check the information sent after booking for the meeting time and detailed directions.

Things to check before you book

• Date, time and meeting point
• Number of participants, age requirements and price
• Socks and any dress requirements
• Cancellation deadline and refund conditions

Please check the booking page for the latest information on conditions that depend on group size or dates.

Summary

At Koto Chikage in Nagoya, you can play the koto while learning from a professional player. In this private lesson of about 90 minutes, you don't need to bring any instrument or equipment, and even first-timers can practice from the basics.

What does it sound like when you pluck the strings with picks on your fingers? On your next trip to Nagoya, why not find out by playing a traditional Japanese instrument yourself?