Private Shamisen Workshop with a Professional Musician in Nagoya

We cordially invite you to experience the shamisen, one of Japan’s esteemed traditional musical instruments, under the guidance of a professional shamisen player.

During this workshop, you will be introduced to Jiuta shamisen, a classical form of shamisen music that flourished during the Edo period.

All necessary instruments and materials will be fully prepared for your use; therefore, you may attend without bringing anything.

It would be our greatest pleasure to share the experience of performing the shamisen—an enduring symbol of Japan’s musical heritage—together with you.

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We are pleased to announce a new workshop for all visiting tourists to Japan.

Japanese Floral Culture：Shimenawa wreath workshop

Japanese Floral Culture – Ikebana

Japan has a long tradition of appreciating seasonal plants and flowers, expressed most clearly in Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement.


Ikebana emphasizes:

• harmony with nature
• balance and meaningful space (Ma)
• seasonality
• simplicity and mindfulness

This approach is more than decoration, it is a cultural and spiritual practice that encourages reflection, calmness, and connection with nature.

The aesthetics and philosophy of Ikebana have strongly influenced New Year decorations, including the Shimenawa wreath.

What is a Shimenawa?

A Shimenawa is a sacred rope made from rice straw, traditionally displayed at the entrance of homes and shrines in Japan.
It marks a purified, protected space, invites good fortune, and keeps negative influences away.
It is one of the most significant symbols of Japanese New Year.

Meaning of the Elements

• Rice / Rice Straw — Gratitude for the harvest, daily nourishment, and life itself
• Pine — Longevity, vitality, and evergreen strength
• Red Berries / Red Elements — Prosperity, joy, and celebration
• Gold Accents — Good fortune
• Mizuhiki (Decorative cords) — Connection, unity, and well-wishes

Purpose of the Shimenawa Wreath

The Shimenawa wreath is placed at the beginning of the New Year to:

• welcome blessings
• purify the entrance
• symbolize a fresh start
• create a harmonious, beautiful atmosphere
• express gratitude and respect for nature

Through combining traditional elements with floral aesthetics, the Shimenawa wreath becomes both a cultural symbol and a unique artistic expression.

Workshop Gallery

Rie Asai’s Traditional Japanese Performing Arts

A Journey into the World of Traditional Japan — Curated by Koto Artist Rie Asai

Step into the elegant and soulful world of Japanese tradition with Rie Asai, a globally recognized koto artist, composer, producer, and cultural performer.
Her immersive programs offer an unforgettable fusion of performance, hands-on experience, and heartfelt hospitality — all tailored to provide a truly unique encounter with Japanese culture.

Choose from a variety of experiences, including:

• Traditional Japanese Performing Arts Appreciation
  　Live performances of classical music and dance, presented with cultural context.
• Japanese Instrument Workshop
  　Try your hand at traditional instruments such as the koto, shamisen, kagura bells, or taiko drums — choose your favorite!
• Edo-Era Pastimes Experience
  　Playful and educational activities from Japan's historical golden age.

Every session is personally produced by Rie Asai to create a deeply memorable, one-of-a-kind experience just for you.

Let us craft your own personal memory of Japan — with grace, music, and authentic hospitality.

Private Koto Lesson with a Professional Musician in Nagoya

Experience the beauty of the koto, one of Japan’s most iconic traditional instruments, in Nagoya. Enjoy a private session with a professional koto musician, learning to play in an intimate and serene setting.

We provide everything you need for your koto lesson, including the instrument and accessories.

Learn the fundamentals of koto playing with hands on guidance from a professional musician.

Your lesson will take place in a traditional Japanese classroom, where you can enjoy the tranquility of wabi-sabi aesthetics and a meditative atmosphere, making it a truly immersive and peaceful experience.

We look forward to welcoming you and sharing the beauty of koto, one of Japan’s most treasured musical traditions!

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60 minutes of Japanese sacred culture

Wear traditional miko (shrine maiden) or kannushi (Shinto priest) attire
and step into the spiritual world of a Japanese shrine.
Learn basic rituals, write a short Shinto prayer,
and create your own special Goshuin (shrine seal).

A peaceful cultural experience for all visitors.

What’s Included (60 min)
• Wearing traditional shrine attire
• Short guided tour of the shrine grounds
• Learning basic Shinto etiquette
(bowing, clapping, how to approach the shrine)
• Writing a short Norito (Shinto prayer) with a brush pen
• Making your own Goshuin (shrine seal) – limited to this program
• Photo time in costume
• Certificate of completion

Schedule
11:00 – 12:00
14:00 – 15:00
(Small groups / reservation required)atmosphere.

Fee
6,000 yen per person (tax included)

Recommended For
✓ Visitors who want an authentic Japanese cultural experience
✓ Families and children
✓ Photographers & travelers
✓ First-time visitors to a Shinto shrine

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Private Calligraphy Experience in Nagoya

Experience Shodo, the traditional Japanese art of calligraphy, in Nagoya.

Enjoy a unique and private 90-minute session with a professional calligrapher, creating beautiful brushwork in a serene setting.

Calligraphy lessons are available on: Mondays and Thursdays.

We are happy to accommodate your preferred time.