SAMURAI SOUND – Satsuma Biwa Experience
Touch and play the traditional sound of samurai Japan
In this experience, you will touch and play the Satsuma Biwa,
a traditional Japanese string instrument once favored by samurai.
The Satsuma Biwa is known for its deep, powerful sound, created using a large wooden plectrum called a biwa bachi.
For centuries, it was used to accompany stories of battle, honor, and life, and was considered an essential part of samurai culture.
This is not just a performance to watch.
You are invited to hold the instrument, feel its weight, and create sound with your own hands.
You may even sing along, experiencing the music as it was once shared.
Etiquette plays an important role when interacting with the Satsuma Biwa.
Through posture, movement, and simple gestures, you will naturally experience the traditional manners that have long been part of Japanese culture.
This intimate encounter with sound allows you to connect not only with music, but with the mindset and presence
that once surrounded the samurai.
Key Points of the Experience
- Touch and play the Satsuma Biwa, a traditional Japanese string instrument once favored by samurai since the Heian period
- Create sound with your own hands — you may even sing along and experience the music as it was once shared
- Experience Japanese etiquette through posture, movement, and interaction with the instrument
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LOCATION
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WHEN
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DURATION
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GROUP OF PEOPLE
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| Yamato City, Kanagawa Prefecture | 10:00am-11:30am | 70 minutes | 1-10 people |
Book Now
Small-group experience.
Touch and play the Satsuma Biwa with a professional artist.
About the Experience
Duration: 70 minutes
Fee: 350 USD per person
Location: Yamato City Community Center Sakuramori Kaikan
Group Size: 1–10 participants
Sample Schedule (Starting at 10:00 AM)
10:00 – 10:30
Introduction and guidance on Japanese etiquette when interacting with the Satsuma Biwa.
Learn posture, movement, and the cultural mindset behind the instrument.
10:30 – 11:00
Hands-on experience with the Satsuma Biwa.
Touch the instrument, feel its weight, and create sound with your own hands.
11:00 – 11:10
Short break.
11:10 – 11:30
Play the Satsuma Biwa while vocalizing.
Experience the expressive power of sound and conclude the session with a quiet epilogue.
Experience Features
Led by a professional Satsuma Biwa artist with extensive performance experience.
The instructor has performed at prestigious shrines, including national treasure-class sites,
and has shared the sound of the Satsuma Biwa internationally across the United States,
Africa, China, and other regions.
AGENDA
The session begins with a brief introduction and self-introductions, followed by an overview of the history of the Satsuma Biwa
and guidance on how to properly handle the instrument.
Before playing, you will learn the traditional manners and posture that accompany interaction with the Satsuma Biwa, experiencing Japanese etiquette through movement and presence.
You will then move on to playing the instrument yourself, creating sound with your own hands.
The experience concludes with a solo performance video recording, which will be sent to you by email after the session.
Language: Japanese / English
Included
- Instructor fee
- instrument rental (including insurance)
- venue usage fee
Not Included
- Transportation costs
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Cancellation Policy and Refunds
Cancellations made more than 48 hours before the experience are free of charge.
Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled start time will incur a 100% cancellation fee, and no refunds will be provided.
Regarding Late Arrivals
Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your reserved start time. Late arrivals are generally not accepted. If you are delayed without prior notice, the break time during the session may be shortened accordingly.
We appreciate your understanding, as the experience follows a fixed schedule.
Belongings and clothes
Casual and comfortable clothing is welcome. However, you may be asked to remove accessories or items that could interfere with the instrument during the experience.
Others
You will be using one of only a limited number of Satsuma Biwa instruments available worldwide. Please handle the instrument and the plectrum (bachi) with great care, following the guidance provided by the instructor.
MEETING POINT & HOW TO ACCESS
Meeting Point : Yamato City Community Center Sakuramori Kaikan
3-5-21 Sakuramori, Yamato City, Kanagawa
How to Access
From Sagami-Otsuka Station (Sotetsu Line),
exit the ticket gate, turn right, and go down the stairs on the north side.
Walk toward the traffic light and continue through the local streets.
Enjoy a short stroll through a quiet neighborhood
as you make your way to the venue.
