At one of the last remaining string shops, learn about Japan's rich musical heritage
2 hour Private Experience
Location: Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Learn about how musical strings are traditionally created from silk. See production right before your eyes at the string workshop. Enjoy tea and one-on-one conversation with a National Living Treasure string maker.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 2 (13:00 - 15:00)
Session 3 (14:00 - 16:00)
Closed on weekends, holidays, Obon, and New Year's holidays.
Access
20 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
Pulling Strings
The sound of Japan comes in many forms - the thunderous boom of the taiko drum, the reedy call of bamboo flutes, and the symphony or countless string instruments, from the hand-held body of the biwa lute to the long, elegant shape of the koto harp. Japan's string instruments have long provided a harmonious heritage of folkloric songs to theatrical soundscapes. And, with long, durable fibers capable of both strength and flexibility, silk historically proved to be a high-quality material for crafting the instrumental strings that acted as the foundation for the music. Yet the process of string-making requires both staggering amounts of raw material and expertise, with just a single strand consisting of roughly 120 smaller fibers woven together in alternating patterns, then combined to create a thicker, final product. At this studio, the current master, the 10th generation of artisan in his family and a National Living Treasure, works tirelessly to sustain this ancient craft for future generations of musicians. His workshop, which boasts a history of over 300 years, is one of five remaining locations in the entire country capable of producing strings from silk, and currently provides customized options to suit a range of instruments and musicians. Join this veritable master in delving deeper into the world of Japan's musical strings. See some of the creation techniques right before your eyes and gain a more nuanced understanding of how the music of Japan comes to life, thanks to the knowledge and effort of artisans like him.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
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