LINKS & RESOURCES

Culture & Experiences

Ninja Dojo and Store (Kyoto)
A fun interactive Kyoto experience where visitors can learn about and train like a ninja. Go be a ninja for a day!

https://ninjadojoandstore.com/

​

TONDAYA Nishijin Lifestyle Museum (Kyoto)
Set in a traditional Kyoto townhouse, Tondaya offers cultural experiences like kimono dressing and tea ceremonies. (They're also right in the neighbourhood!)

https://tondaya.co.jp/

​

Kyoto City Official Travel Guide
The official tourism website for Kyoto, providing information on attractions, events, and travel tips.

https://ja.kyoto.travel/

​

Cafe Ichigoichie (Kyoto)
A cozy Kyoto café offering a tranquil atmosphere and traditional Japanese sweets.

https://cafeichigoichie.crayonsite.net/

​

HiKESHi SPiRiT (Tokyo, Asakusa)
A fashion brand inspired by traditional Japanese firefighter culture, based in Asakusa. Check them out for one of a kind souvenirs if you're in the Tokyo area.

https://hikeshispirit.com/

​

Hotels/ Lodging​

 

Hotel KéFU Stay & Lounge (Kyoto)

Stylish and modern hotel with a cozy café (and great food) in the Nishijin Area of Kyoto.

https://ke-fu.jp/

 

Hostel Sui memo (Kyoto)

Guest house with a great vibe near the Shamisen Dojo.

https://dormitory-sui-kyoto.hotels-in-kyoto.com/en/

 

The Pocket Hotel (Kyoto)

Budget-friendly lodging option with compact, clean rooms and a great location. 

https://sotetsu-hotels.com/pocket-hotel/karasumagojo/

 

Hotel Resol Kyoto Shijo Muromachi  

Comfortable and elegant stay with a traditional-modern design near Kyoto’s shopping district.

https://en.www.resol-hotel.jp/kyoto-s/

Music & Artists

The Shamisenists
Instrumental rock trio blending traditional shamisen with modern rock and funk elements.

https://www.transist.site/the-shamisenists

​

Hibiki Ichikawa (London)
A UK-based Tsugaru shamisen virtuoso known for dynamic performances and teaching.

https://hibikishamisen.com/

​

Hamamachi Hibi (Fukui)
A cultural initiative in Fukui, Japan, focusing on preserving and promoting local traditions and crafts.

https://hamamachi-hibi.com/

​

Koizumi Ethnic Instruments (Kyoto)
A Kyoto shop specializing in traditional and ethnic musical instruments from around the world.

https://www.koizumigakki.com/

​

Kaminari Guitars (Yokohama)
A Yokohama-based shop offering custom guitars, vintage gear, and accessories.

https://kaminari-yokohama.com/

​

SKYAWAY
A luthier crafting modern interpre

tations of traditional African harps like the Kora and Ngoni.

https://www.skyaway.net/

​

Bachido
An international shamisen community offering lessons, resources, and instruments for enthusiasts worldwide. https://ja.bachido.com/

​

More Than Music Japan
A platform connecting international audiences with Japan's indie music scene through events and media.

https://morethanmusicjapan.com/ja