.png)
A KYOTO EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER
Step into the world of traditional Japanese culture and music with a real, classically trained shamisenist in an exclusive one-on-one or group training session—all in English! Whether you’re a total beginner, a seasoned musician, or just curious, this immersive class is designed for anyone who wants to explore the rich culture of Japan in a fun and accessible way.
This new concept is gaining acclaim in the shamisen community, bridging traditional and modern Japan bringing the beauty of the shamisen to new audiences. We invite you to embrace the journey, explore the music and discover a world rarely seen.
Don’t just learn about Japanese culture, experience it!
The soul of Japan awaits...
Are you ready? ENTER THE DOJO…
OUR WORKSHOPS
In-person Sessions Include:
• Shamisen Rental With Accessories
• Green Tea & A Light Snack
• Photo Session
...and a cherished memory of your time in Kyoto!
LESSON PACKS
Staying in Japan for a while?
Contact us today to learn about our
discounted lesson packs available in sets of 3 or 5 sessions!
WHAT OUR GUESTS ARE SAYING
WHAT TO EXPECT
• Sessions are held in English or Japanese. Small group & private lessons offered.
• No Experience Necessary! Whether you're a total beginner or a musician looking for something new, this session is designed for all skill levels.
• Hands-On Learning – You'll hold, strum, and play a real shamisen from the very start, with step-by-step guidance from a professional, classically trained instructor.
• A Fun & Immersive Atmosphere – Lessons are interactive, engaging, and filled with laughter. You won’t just learn notes- you’ll have fun experiencing Japanese culture firsthand.
• By the end of your session, you’ll have learned shamisen fundamentals, a traditional scale, and a song to start your journey. Check our our FAQ for more information.
LOCATION & ACCESS
Shamisen Dojo is located in Northern Kyoto, just a 15-minute walk from the world-famous Kinkakuji Temple. Easily accessible from Kyoto Station and other parts of the city, our dojo sits in the heart of the historic Nishijin area—known for its traditional craft culture and local charm. We encourage you to take some time before or after your workshop to explore the area and enjoy all it has to offer.
Need Help Finding Us?
Call or message us at +81 90-6956-8576.
(We are also on What's App)
INSTRUCTOR'S MESSAGE
INSTRUCTOR PROFILE
寂空-JACK- (Tsugaru-shamisen) A genre escaping, boundary crossing shamisen musician with a diverse approach and appeal, bridging the distance from shrines and temples to rock festivals. In 2023, Jack performed at the celebrated Fuji Rock festival. Considering travel and music as his calling in life, Jack has toured in over 15 countries developing a global music network. Driven by these experiences, and vowing to become a bridge between Japan and the rest of the world, he relocated to Nishijin in Kyoto in 2024 and opened the “Shamisen Dojo”.
Jack has extensive experience as an instructor. He has been teaching classes in the Kanto region for 17 years. He also taught as a special instructor at ESP Entertainment Osaka's Japanese musical instrument seminars, and instructed at YAMAHA Music School.
Major Awards
• 2014, Tsugaru Shamisen World Championships, Class A Division, Silver Prize.
• 2019, Indian Foreign Minister’s Award, presented for his arrangement of the Japanese version of Mahatma Gandhi’s beloved devotional song, on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of Gandhi’s birth.
WHAT IS THE SHAMISEN?
The shamisen is a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument with a distinctive, resonant tone, deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Introduced to Japan in the 16th century, it became a central instrument in bunraku puppet theatre, kabuki, and various folk and classical music styles. In Kyoto, its refined melodies echo through the ochaya (teahouses) of Gion, accompanying the graceful performances of maiko and geiko in Kyo-mai dance. The shamisen’s expressive sound, ranging from delicate whispers to powerful, percussive strikes, reflects both the elegance of Kyoto’s traditions and the dynamic spirit of Japanese performing arts.
EXPLORE THE WORLD OF THE SHAMISEN
We hope this workshop will be your gateway into the fascinating world of the shamisen. From traditional melodies to modern innovations, the shamisen offers a vast and rewarding experience. We invite you to explore these videos as a glimpse into its rich world.
![[Shamisen Dojo S1E3]
Here are some unforgettable moments with the amazing guests who visited us between March and May 2025.
Spring in Kyoto is full of beauty—cherry blossoms, temples, and seasonal charm—and yet you chose to spend your time with us. For that, we are truly honored and grateful.
This season also marked our 1st anniversary, a heartfelt milestone.
With your support, a new chapter—Season 2—has just begun.
We look forward to sharing more memories and music together!
Returning guests can enjoy a 30% discount on their next lesson.
We hope to welcome you back—here in Kyoto, or somewhere else on this musical journey.
#写るんです #fujifilm #retrocamera #underworld
#shamisendojo #shamisen #tsugarushamisen #lessons #inenglish #japan #kyoto #japaneseculture #三味線道場
@underworld](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.82787-15/515008329_17915761824104619_5348857288893131096_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=5cOFjevMDVAQ7kNvwGxZMbx&_nc_oc=Adnpf6CSwXjBIoBwPy0YfeUDh26uIbExKHC42YsqaTB3qjv5UWKdBhIFhHjigyrwCIU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=fIJEVMYK8k-hlRsM_gkm5A&oh=00_AfR7o-1YPJF1O_M0coiwYU9PiBBrVbhPHxk7XY-TA-mW5w&oe=6879EDEF)
![[Shamisen Dojo S1E2]
Here are some photos of the wonderful guests who visited us from December last year to February this year. We were blessed with many unique and inspiring visitors, and our hearts are full of gratitude.
Thank you so much!
As a token of appreciation, returning guests can enjoy a 30% discount on their next lesson.
We truly hope to see you again, whether in Kyoto or somewhere else in the world!
#写るんです #fujifilm #retrocamera #underworld
#shamisendojo #shamisen #tsugarushamisen #lessons #inenglish #japan #kyoto #japanesecultures #三味線道場
@underworld](https://scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.71878-15/491451110_3720977058193339_1460490361352044589_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=18de74&_nc_ohc=U_TQ3krtbxUQ7kNvwE-rmB2&_nc_oc=Adkw_VMCvxryAZXYoY_RsP4Mr2sOXco8uRMG7AbfOlvpByNsl4NRhNAaokGsN8XBl6Y&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent-sea1-1.cdninstagram.com&edm=ANo9K5cEAAAA&_nc_gid=fIJEVMYK8k-hlRsM_gkm5A&oh=00_AfSXRwoDjWIbVufVDzO71uYsxdh27w7N_GjG3KXh0C0DDw&oe=6879E7F9)
