Koto Workshop in Hiroshima |

Experience the Soul of Hiroshima: A Peaceful Koto Workshop

Discover the soul of Japan through the timeless sound of the koto—just one minute from Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Dome.
What is Koto?

You can learn Koto and think about peace

Learn to play a complete koto piece in just 90 minutes
Experience authentic Japanese culture beyond sightseeing
Discover the story of Hiroshima through music
Learn from experienced English-speaking and licensed koto instructors
Located just one minute from the Atomic Bomb Dome

Detail

Step into the heart of Japanese culture with our one-of-a-kind koto workshop, located just a one-minute walk from Hiroshima's Atomic Bomb Dome. More than a music lesson, this is a meaningful cultural experience where you'll discover the beauty of Japan's traditional instrument while reflecting on Hiroshima's enduring message of peace.
Whether you've never played an instrument before or already love Japanese culture, our friendly English-speaking instructors will guide you every step of the way. By the end of the workshop, you'll be able to perform a complete piece on the koto with confidence.

[✨ What You'll Experience]
1. Discover Japan's Iconic Instrument
• Explore the fascinating 1,300-year history of the koto, Japan's elegant 13-string instrument.
• Learn why Fukuyama City, located near Hiroshima, produces over 70% of Japan's handcrafted kotos and has become the country's center of koto craftsmanship.
• Discover the symbolism behind the instrument's beautiful design and its role in Japanese culture.

2. Experience Hiroshima Through Music
Listen to "Echo of Serenity," a moving composition inspired by Hiroshima's wish for peace.
As the gentle sound of the koto fills the room, experience how music can express emotions beyond words.

3. Learn to Play the Koto
Learn from certified instructors of the Sawai Koto Academy, one of Japan's most respected koto schools. Every workshop is led by an instructor who is either a certified teacher or holds the Advanced Instructor qualification from the Academy.
Your instructor will guide you step by step, teaching you:
✓ Proper posture
✓ Basic playing techniques
✓ How to read simple koto notation
✓ How to perform "Echo of Serenity"
No musical experience is required.

4. Perform Together
End the workshop with a memorable group performance of "Echo of Serenity."
We'll record your performance so you can relive and share this special moment with family and friends.

Take Home Meaningful Memories
Every participant receives:
• A video recording of your performance
• A hand-folded origami crane, Hiroshima's symbol of peace and hope

Lesson flow

Introduction to the Koto
Introducing the Peace-Themed Piece
Hands-On Practice
Group Performance
Closing Gift

Tuning (平調子)

Using Tsume (Ikuta method)
Proper Koto Posture (Ikuta method)
Proper Tone production
Proper Technique—Avoiding Tension
Reading Koto Notation

Sawai Etudes #1-5 (Finger 1)

Descending scale (Finger 1) – prep for Sawai Etude #6
Sawai Etudes #6-7
Sawai Etude #9 (Fingers 2 & 3)

Introduction video

ORDER REQUEST

You can contact by Instagram or WhatsApp or the following form

REQUEST FORM +8182-909-2462

Who is the teacher?

The Koto is such a beautiful sounding instrument. Although it is hard work to properly play it, it is also a very relaxing and rewarding musical instrument to play. If you are looking for an introduction into the rich world of traditional Japanese music, I invite you to come learn and play the Koto with me. I believe that anyone can learn to play this beautiful instrument. I hope that you get to have as much fun playing the koto as I do. See you soon!

Hanz Santos

Fee

9,900 yen per person

Credit card and cash are acceptable
90min Group lesson, up to 10 people
From 10 years old and above
People who understand English are welcome (The lesson is held in English)

Location

Address : 315 Shareo Underground Shopping Mall 1-1 Otemachi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, Japan

Customer voice

          
   M Sugar 
 June 25, 2026
 
 
   This turned out to be one of the best experiences of my trip to Japan.
It was my first time playing the koto. It was difficult, but in the end, we all played the assigned piece together, and it gave me a real sense of accomplishment.
They even filmed a video of it, which really moved me.
  
 
 
       
   alexandre anne 
 May 26, 2026
 
 
   I had a wonderful experience learning the basics of the koto. The teacher, Tiffany, was really kind and invested in the lesson. We played a song in the end which was really touching, a beautiful moment of music. Also the sound of the koto is profound and soft. I strongly recommend this place if you want to learn about a part of Hiroshima and japanese culture!
  
 
 
       
   Saeed Mohajer 
 March 28, 2026
 
 
   I tried the Koto session and I absolutely loved every second of it. Didn't realise how time flew. Must do of you're in Hiroshima.
  
 
 
       
   vincent Mouilleau 
 September 23, 2025
 
 
   The koto class was awesome. I really enjoyed it. The background story of the instrument was explained, and also show some contemporary artists who play it.
Moreover, I had never played an instrument before, and the class was perfectly designed for beginners. The teacher was very kind and a good pedagogue. I progressively learned and I was able to play a song at the end, as well as listen to the teacher’s demonstration. I highly recommend it.

Le cours de koto était génial. Je l’ai vraiment apprécié. L’histoire de l’instrument a été expliquée, et nous avons aussi découvert des artistes contemporains qui en jouent.
De plus je ne joue pas d’un instrument,  le cours était adapté pour les débutants. Le professeur était très gentil et très pédagogue. J'ai appris progressivement et j'ai pu jouer un morceau à la fin, et aussi ecouter une démonstration du professeur. Je recommande vivement.
  
 
 
       
   Sakikeks 
 August 24, 2025
 
 
   The Koto-workshop was very fun. Our instructor, Tiffany, was very nice and patient with us and explained the steps carefully. My friend and I were both able to follow and in the end play the piece we were taught - no experience with musical instruments needed!
Also, we were able to book the class last-minute due to a change of plans, which we were very grateful for.
If you want to try playing the koto and have some time on your hands in Hiroshima (especially when it's too hot to do anything else) I would definitely recommend this workshop :)
  
 
 
       
   Charlotte Laffargue 
 August 12, 2025
 
 
   Nous avons passé un moment magique en famille à la découverte du koto. Hans est très pédagogue, et nous avons pu jouer un petit morceau en groupe à la fin, c’est très gratifiant. Je recommande vraiment ce moment paisible, passionnant, ludique. Nous en apprenons beaucoup sur cet instrument japonais. Merci beaucoup Hans et Akira.
  
 
 
       
   Holly Ricks 
 May 16, 2025
 
 
   Organised through our hotel (Lazuli in Hiroshima) my partner and I had our very first koto lesson with Vincent - we had the best time! Vincent was an excellent teacher; kind, patient, with perfect English and after giving us an interesting history into the instrument, showed us how to begin to play with plenty of tips to improve our technique along the way. By the end of the lesson, we were able to play the "sakura sakura" song (to our amazement) with Vincent accompanying us - we thought we sounded pretty good for beginners! I would highly recommend the experience, it was great fun!
  
 
 
       
   Harley Hall 
 May 14, 2025
 
 
   Vincent was a fantastic and patient teacher, I really enjoyed the lesson that I had. If it wasn’t for my own chaotic and busy lifestyle, I would seriously consider taking up more Koto lessons as it a beautifully sounding and fun instrument to play. Vincent represented the instrument proudly and did it justice!
  
 
 
       
   Malek 
 November 14, 2024
 
 
   I went to a koto workshop for one hour recently, and it was really great! I don't usually play musical instruments, but I found the koto not too hard to learn. The teacher made the class easy to understand by explaining basic things in a simple way that was also quick and enjoyable.

The sound of koto is very nice and special. The workshop place was friendly and warm too. It let me see Japanese music tradition in a hands on way. Highly recommended for anyone curious, even if you’re a complete beginner!
  
 
 
  
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Q&A

How to pay?

You can pay at the shop before the workshop. We accept credit cards and cash.

Can I take the lesson by myself?

Whether you’re alone, in a group, or an entire family, everyone is welcome to take the lesson!

I have no experience with any instruments. Can I still take the lesson?

Yes, the lesson is for beginners. Whether you have music experience or not, you are always welcome.

We are a family of 7 people. Can we take the lesson together?

Yes. We can accept the group if you are less than 10 people. And we recommend participants more than 10 years old, but if you take care of your child who is less than 9 years old, it’s still fine.

I want my own Koto so I can practice at home. Where can I buy one?

Our Kotos are also for sale. You can purchase one from our shop. Details will be provided after the lesson.

I enjoyed my first session! Is it possible to take more lessons after the first one?

Yes, it is possible. We can also arrange online Koto lessons! Further information will be provided after the first session.