Authentic Koto Experience in Odawara Castle Town (Near Tokyo)
Odawara, Japan
- 1 hour (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
What's Included
- Rental fee of Koto(instrument) and tools for play it.
- Instruction fee
- Private transportation
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Odawara-juku Nariwai Exchange Center3-chōme-6-23 Honchō, Odawara, Kanagawa 250-0012, Japan
・Approx. 14-minutes' walk from the East Exit of Odawara Station ・From Odawara Station, take a Hakone Tozan Bus (bound for Hakone), get off at Saiwai-cho Bus Stop and walk for 1 minute ・7-minute walk to Odawara Castle ・5-minute walk to the coastal tunnel (access to the beach)
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Most travelers can participate
- You will take off shoes when you enter the place for the music lesson
- During the activity, you will have Japanese style sitting posture "seiza". If you are not comfortable it, let me know. I prepare chairs.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Reviews
5.0
based on 6 reviews
Lucy_B, Jan 2026
My traditional Japanese music experience in Odawara was truly beyond my expectations. I was thoroughly taught about the history and basic knowledge of the Koto, and was supported so that even beginners could quickly produce beautiful sounds. I also had the opportunity to listen to the instructor's performance, and while I was surprised by the sound, it was beyond my imagination and deeply soothing.
This was my first time playing the Koto, but the instructor's explanations were very easy to understand, and he taught me slowly and carefully, so I felt at ease and comfortable participating. The session covered everything from the basics to the actual melody, and I was thrilled when I finally played "Sakura." It was a rare opportunity to experience traditional culture firsthand.
The venue was within walking distance of Odawara Station, and the atmosphere of taking off your shoes and sitting down was very Japanese, which I enjoyed.
It was a very satisfying cultural experience, and was enjoyable for both beginners and experienced players. The instructor's hospitality was also excellent, making it especially recommended for travelers seeking a truly Japanese experience.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review! I had a great time too! While the Koto allows even beginners to create produce beautiful sounds, I was really inspired by your questions and the insights you shared from your experience with the guitar and other similar instruments. Let’s both keep enjoying our musical journeys!
Yuki_O, Oct 2025
Finally I could experience Koto thanks to Akiko!
I usually play bass and ukulele and such an avid fan of musical instruments especially the strings.
The sound of Koto was specially lustrous and beautiful, and I wanted to be surrounded by forever.
The level was perfect for me finishing up the famous Sakura song easy version in 1 hour.
And Akiko's performance was .. WOW! So professional!
I was so lucky to be able to see it so close.
The venue is very traditional and registered tangible cultural property, so the atmosphere really fits Koto lesson.
I could even put on Kimono and take photo and movie while I was playing the Koto. The Japanese local sweets were amazing, too.
Thank you for everything, Akiko!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I'm delighted you enjoyed the Koto experience and loved the beautiful sound. It was a pleasure having you. I hope you'll play again someday!
Yuki_O, Oct 2025
It was first time for me to actually see, know and touch the Japanese instrument; Koto.
For me as 8 years old, it was challenging but so much fun.
Akiko sensei taught me one by one and step by step.
Thank you!
Response from Host, Oct 2025
Thank you for your review! I'm so proud of you for trying the Koto for the very first time! Learning a new instrument can be challenging, but you did a wonderful job. I hope you will keep exploring new things!
Lucia_G, Jun 2025
Truly inspiring experience for our family girl trip (Mum, 70, me, 49 and daughter, 11). Akiko made us feel very welcome and was very patient, adapting the song to our level - I couldn't believe how beautiful it sounded even as absolute begginners. Koto is such an amazing instrument and it was fantastic to experience a different aspect of japanese culture, away from the tourist areas. We felt truly welcome and it was a delight to watch her play with such elegance. Highly recommended!
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Thank you so much for your kind review!
I'm so happy you had such an inspiring experience during your trip. Koto might look challenging at first glance, but it's an instrument that even beginners can easily produce beautiful sounds with. You played it wonderfully, and I was so happy to hear such a beautiful tone!!
Kyoko_Y, Apr 2025
I really enjoyed learning how to play Koto. At the beginning it looked difficult but she picked an easy piece and taught me an easy move that would make me look like a professional player. Her lesson was full of fun and also educational. I think it’s a rare opportunity and I highly recommend her lesson.
Response from Host, Jun 2025
What a fantastic review, thank you! I'm so happy you enjoyed your koto lesson. It was a pleasure to teach you, and I appreciate your kind words and recommendation!
From $46.52
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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Authentic Koto Experience in Odawara Castle Town (Near Tokyo)
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