1.5 hour private experience
Location: Fukuoka City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
A master performer of the Reishou School of Chikuzen biwa, founder of Yoshinokai, and a member of the Japan Biwa Music Association, Choka is both a biwa musician and instructor. Trained by leading figures of the Chikuzen biwa tradition, she composes and performs original works that seek deep human resonance, collaborating across disciplines, including contributing iconic soundtracks to the Ghost of Tsushima and Ghost of Yotei gaming franchise, while dedicating herself to passing biwa culture on to the next generation.
What you’ll do
Learn about the history and beauty of Chikuzen biwa and its place in the world of Japanese classical music. Discover how to play the Chikuzen biwa under the instruction of the master. Then, watch a live, private performance of traditional music right before your eyes.
Availability
Everyday except Thursdays
Session 1 (10:00 - 11:30)
Session 2 (14:00 - 15:30)
Who can attend
Children must be 11+
(younger children may be accommodated upon inquiry)
What to wear
Please wear comfortable, relaxed clothing that allows you to sit easily.
Since you will be resting the instrument on your lap, please wear a long skirt or trousers. The instrument should not come into direct contact with your skin.
Please avoid wearing large nails or accessories.
Access
20 minutes by car from Hakata Station
The Sound of Music
Echoing a journey that began over a millennium ago along the ancient Silk Road, the biwa carries with it the sounds of distant deserts, mountains, and courts. Introduced to Japan more than 1,300 years ago, its resonant strings and powerful vocal accompaniment have since animated aristocratic salons, Buddhist ceremonies, and classical stages alike. Among the many forms of biwa in Japan, the Chikuzen biwa stands apart. Originating in Fukuoka during the Meiji era (1868–1912), it is the most recent biwa tradition, known for its comparatively compact size, gentle timbre, and expressive versatility. Drawing on shamisen techniques, the Chikuzen biwa is especially suited to lyrical ballads and secular storytelling, balancing elegance with emotional depth. Join a professional Chikuzen biwa virtuoso who began her musical training at just 13 under a teacher born in the Meiji era - the same era of the Chikuzen biwa's creation itself - in discovering the singular sound of this classical instrument.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 3 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
