Experience Japanese Harp Koto in Kyoto 京都の箏曲/琴体験教室

Beginner-Friendly Koto Experience at the Hidden Gem 'Kangetsu' in Kyoto’s Ninenzaka

Beginners are warmly welcomed! Discover the traditional Japanese art of koto music in Kyoto's Ninenzaka and enjoy the heartfelt sounds you create.

At our traditional koto music workshop, immerse yourself in the beauty of Japanese culture and experience a soothing moment.

This experience is perfect for creating memorable moments during your trip to Kyoto, with no need to bring anything.

Escape the Everyday and Enjoy a Blissful Time Surrounded by Koto Music

This experience is designed to allow anyone, including foreign travelers and first-timers, to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese traditional culture while enjoying koto music.

We make koto basics easy to understand, sparking interest in Japanese culture.

Introduction to the Koto and Its History

We provide a brief introduction to the history and culture of the Japanese koto, covering different types of koto and schools to give a comprehensive view.

Explanation of Instruments

Learn about the structure and parts of the koto, gaining deeper insight into the instrument and enhancing your appreciation of the performance.

Proper Posture and Holding Technique

We provide careful instruction on the correct sitting posture, body movement, how to hold the koto, and the proper use of plectrums.

Basic Playing Techniques

Practice the basic movements of both hands, use of the plectrum, and string plucking. Even beginners will quickly be able to produce sounds.

Performance Experience

Play seasonal pieces that reflect Japan's four seasons and feel the spirit of koto music through a blend with tea ceremony. Enjoy a moment of inner peace, touching on Zen philosophy to foster mental calm and concentration.

Understanding Japanese Culture

Through koto music, appreciate the beauty and depth of Japanese culture and spend a peaceful moment connecting through music.

Educational Benefits of Koto in Child Development Koto and Child Development

Fostering Cognitive and Developmental Growth Through Koto

The koto offers a wonderful experience packed with educational elements that benefit children's development.
More than just music, koto has traditionally been used to nurture various skills, making it an effective tool for cognitive growth.

Dexterity: The finger movements required in koto playing enhance hand dexterity, helping with everyday tasks such as controlling pencils and scissors.
Concentration: Playing a full piece requires learning the steps and focusing intently. Through koto practice, children naturally develop concentration and persistence.
Spatial Awareness: Understanding the placement of notes and the koto layout helps build spatial awareness, which is useful for understanding shapes and three-dimensional thinking.
Logical Thinking: Following specific steps in a piece strengthens logical thinking skills. This skill supports planning and understanding sequential tasks.
Imagination and Creativity: Visualizing the flow of the music while playing cultivates imagination, and exploring ways to express sound nurtures creativity.
Sense of Achievement: The accomplishment of playing a piece from start to finish instills confidence in children, motivating them for future challenges.