5 Concerts & Shows in Kyoto Worth Planning Around

1.Traditional Concert at Townhouse or Bathhouse

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

Choose a small solo concert in a traditional Kyoto townhouse or a duet program in a former bathhouse hall. Professional musicians play classical, contemporary and original pieces, with bilingual explanations and time for questions. The townhouse option also offers a beginner-friendly koto workshop. Expect 45 to 105 minutes, depending on the venue and whether you add the workshop.

“A wonderful experience, highly recommended. A wonderful concert on the ground floor of a real Japanese house in Kyoto, with nine people in attendance. The music was incredible, performed by a talented artist. If you want something authentic, go there. You'll spend an hour with wonderful, kind people.”

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2.Concerts Played with Traditional Instruments in Kyoto

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 50 reviews · from $39Top rated

In a traditional Kyoto home, professional musicians introduce the koto and shamisen, then perform classical, modern, and original pieces. The 50-minute concert includes a Q&A and photo time. Choose an option with a hands-on koto session if you want to try playing a simple piece.

“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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3.Japanese Koto & Shamisen Concert and Koto Class

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

In a small, old Kyoto house, hear professional musicians play koto and shamisen, from classical pieces to contemporary and original works. The session includes a short cultural introduction, time for questions and photos, and a beginner-friendly chance to play the koto. Performers and presenters can vary; musicians who have led sessions include Aoi and Kyoko, with Shohei among the interpreters.

“The place was not too difficult to find (i go by taxi), but the alley was very dark, and we had to wait outside till 5 minutes before the show. The performer is very professional and played both instruments beautifully and skillfully, using different techniques that produced different timbre. Enjoyed the evening very much.”

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4.Traditional Concert in Public bath near Kyoto Station

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 5 reviews · from $32

Spend about an hour at Kujo-yu, a renovated former sento near Kyoto Station, listening to traditional Japanese instruments including the koto and shamisen. The changing program ranges from classical works to modern arrangements and original compositions. Concert tickets are included; drinks and transport are not.

“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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5.Private Japanese music concert

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4 reviews · from $57

At Kyomachiya Kiotto in Kyoto’s Nakagyo Ward, a performer plays koto and kokyu for a private audience in a renovated traditional townhouse. The one-hour visit includes comfortable chair seating and music heard up close. Instrument background and a chance to try the koto have been part of some sessions, but are not specified as guaranteed.

“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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