The sound and art of Okinawan culture come alive at this sanshin lacquer studio
2 hour private experience
Location: Naha City, Okinawa
You will be accompanied by a friendly guide who will provide interpretation in English.
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the master
What you’ll do
Enter the studio of a lacquerware artist and classically-trained sanshin performer. Learn more about the culture and history of the sanshin in Okinawa. See different parts of the lacquerware and sanshin production process depending on the day. Finish with a private sanshin performance by the host.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
Availability
Monday to Saturday
Session 1 (09:00 - 11:00)
Session 2 (11:00 - 13:00)
Session 3 (13:00 - 15:00)
Unavailable every Sunday.
Access
30 minutes by car from Naha Airport
Serpentine Strings
A ubiquitous presence in nearly every Okinawan home, the sanshin's long wooden neck and drum-like body wrapped taut in python snakeskin represent an ancient musical tradition of the Ryukyu Islands that continues to prosper melodically in even modern times. A three-stringed instrument introduced to Okinawa from China in the 14th century, it has since evolved into its own unique variation, also acting as the predecessor to the equally iconic mainland Japanese shamisen. Built to last more than a lifetime, sanshin are often passed down in families for generations, and were once viewed as carrying the voices of the dietes themselves, are now used in small family gatherings, weddings, festivals, and other local celebrations. While the construction of these instruments occasionally varies, with Okinawans notably creating sanshin out of empty metal cans following destruction based by WWII, one of the integral parts of traditional sanshin is lacquerware, serving to preserve the rich tones and intricate construction of the instrument, as well as add a strong sheen to the design. At this sanshin lacquerware studio, operated by an artisan with not only a professional background in various parts of the sanshin production process, but also classical training in sanshin performing arts, immerse into the musical heritage of the ancient Ryukyu kingdom and modern Okinawan culture and witness firsthand the intricate processes involved in the art of lacquerware.
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.
