9 Concerts in Kyoto Worth Booking

1.Kyoto: Traditional Concert at Townhouse or Bathhouse

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 224 reviews · 45 - 105 minutes · from $32Our pick

Choose a cozy Kyoto townhouse concert for up to 11 people, or a historic bathhouse hall with music for up to 30. Gen and his team explain the koto, shamisen, notation, and repertoire in English and Japanese before professional musicians perform classical and modern pieces. The townhouse option adds a hands-on koto lesson.

“Incredible performance. a very intimate experience with rich history and a performance that rewards your attention. I also enjoyed the Informative answers to questions given by the audience. I’d highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a culturally rich concert. 10/10”

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2.Traditional Japanese Music show & Experience Tour in Kyoto

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 57 reviews · from $46Top rated

At Harmony in Japan Tour in central Kyoto, you’ll spend 25 minutes watching traditional music performed, 25 minutes trying instruments such as shamisen, koto, and wadaiko, and 10 minutes taking photos. Expert guidance and a maximum of 12 participants make this a friendly, hands-on introduction.

“Fun and great information. The hands on portion was cool too! It was cool to see them play the instruments, sing, and allow us to participate in some songs. The hands on part was fun where we were able to play the instruments and guideRead more”

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3.Concerts Played with Traditional Instruments in Kyoto

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 50 reviews · from $39

At Gen Home Saiin in Kyoto, professional musicians introduce the koto and shamisen, perform classical and modern pieces, then answer questions. Choose an upgrade for a short hands-on koto lesson. Concerts run at several times, last about 50 minutes, and use mobile tickets.

“The best experience we’ve had in Kyoto. A stunning intimate performance which offered insight into traditional Japanese music and instruments. We would highly recommend to anyone visiting Kyoto to attend this experience”

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4.Kyoto: Japanese Koto & Shamisen Concert and Koto Class

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 31 reviews · 1 hour - 100 minutes · from $38

In a cozy old house near Saiin Station, you’ll hear Aoi and other professional musicians play koto and shamisen, learn how Japanese music is written, ask questions, and try the koto yourself. The private or small-group session lasts 60 to 100 minutes and suits complete beginners.

“Very captivating experience.. was a bitnof a struggle to find the small house in the residential area but it was very well worth it, especially as someone who is trying to collect traditional instruments.. learnt a lot, saw a lot, and played a lot.. thank you to kyoko san especially who made the lesson more interesting by letting me try some of my own ideas along the way (and her own performances were superb as well) will definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a cultural, instrumental experience.. (theres even an option to just take a performance-only course for those who are looking for a cheaper alternative so…”

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5.Kyoto: Japanese Koto Musical Instrument Class

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 11 reviews · 1h 30m · from $32

At Gojo Paradiso beside Kyoto’s Takase River, an English- and Japanese-speaking instructor introduces you to the koto, Japan’s elegant 13-string instrument. You’ll hear a live performance, learn Sakura Sakura, and try more songs if time allows. The class welcomes beginners, limits attendance to 10, and includes the instrument and materials.

“That was an amazing experience, felt great and love the koto sounds. Natsuko was also great❣️ definitely recommended🌟”

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6.Kyoto: Matcha & Traditional Japanese Music Immersive Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 9 reviews · from $850

At Suzaku Garden in Kyoto, you’ll hear koto and violin arrangements of Japanese classics, anime, game music, and original pieces. Enjoy matcha, try the koto with musician guidance, explore tea rooms, and speak with the artists after the 1-hour to 1-hour-20-minute concert.

“This experience was one of my highlights in Kyoto, I've had the chance with my friend to attend this amazing music moment, with artists that have been training since childhood playing instruments they love, they are so good! We also shared an unforgettable moment with the family over a tea ceremony. Do not hesitate to go, it's worth it!”

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7.Traditional Concert in Public bath near Kyoto Station

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5 reviews · from $32

Spend about an hour hearing koto and shamisen in Kujo-yu, a former sento near Kyoto Station. The renovated bathhouse gives the concert unusual acoustics and a memorable setting. The program changes with the season and performers, from classical works to modern arrangements and original music.

“A fun unique experience to add to your itinerary!! The bathhouse is stunning and it was such a unique way to learn about and listen to traditional japanese instruments!”

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8.Private Japanese music concert

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4 reviews · from $57

In a renovated Kyomachiya in central Kyoto, a performer connected with Kiotto plays koto and kokyu for your private party. You sit in a chair, hear the instruments up close, learn about their sound and history, and may have a chance to try them yourself. The one-hour concert costs $57.23 per person and includes mobile admission.

“My family thoroughly enjoyed this concert. The music was beautiful and the musician was accomplished. At the end of the concert, my kids were encouraged and allowed to try the instruments. Both ladies were kind and friendly and made for a very pleasant afternoon.”

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9.Kyoto: Kujo-yu Sento Traditional Japanese Instrument Concert

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2 reviews · 50 min · from $32

At Kujo-yu, a renovated bathhouse near Kyoto Station, you’ll hear a koto and shamisen performance lasting 50 minutes. The program may include classical works, modern arrangements, and original music. An English-speaking host or greeter helps you settle in.

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