3 Concerts & Shows in Japan Sorted by Hour and Price

1.Traditional Concert at Townhouse or Bathhouse

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 224 reviews · 45 - 105 minutes · from $32Our pick

Join Gen’s small Kyoto music experience for a close-up concert by professional koto and shamisen artists. Choose a cozy townhouse solo program for up to 11 people, or a larger historic bathhouse hall with duets and striking acoustics. Expect bilingual explanations, questions with the musicians, photos, and an optional beginner koto lesson at the townhouse.

“About as far from the typical tourist experience as you could get: an incredibly talented artist performing for an audience of 9 people in a private home. Absolutely one of the greatest highlights of my trip.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

2.Concerts Played with Traditional Instruments in Kyoto

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 50 reviews · from $39Top rated

At Gen Home Saiin in Kyoto, you’ll hear professional musicians play koto and shamisen in an intimate home setting. The 50-minute program includes a short instrument introduction, classical pieces such as Chidori no Kyoku and Rokudan no Shirabe, modern works, a Q&A, photos, and an optional hands-on koto lesson.

“The best experience we’ve had in Kyoto. A stunning intimate performance which offered insight into traditional Japanese music and instruments. We would highly recommend to anyone visiting Kyoto to attend this experience”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →

3.Japanese Koto & Shamisen Concert and Koto Class

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 31 reviews · 1 hour - 100 minutes · from $38

In a small Kyoto house, you’ll hear Aoi and other professional musicians perform classical, contemporary, and original koto and shamisen pieces. An English-speaking presenter explains the instruments and music, then you can ask questions, take photos, and try a simple koto piece with expert guidance. Private and small-group options are available.

“The place was not too difficult to find (i go by taxi), but the alley was very dark, and we had to wait outside till 5 minutes before the show. The performer is very professional and played both instruments beautifully and skillfully, using different techniques that produced different timbre. Enjoyed the evening very much.”

Dates, prices, availability →Our full review →