【OUTLINE】

Step away from heavily commercialized tourist spots and immerse yourself in the unpretentious, authentic heart of Mikuni, Fukui. Once a bustling hub for the historic Kitamaebune trading ships and a vibrant geisha district, this old port town offers a deep, multi-sensory journey into genuine Japanese heritage.

This experience goes far beyond a standard guided tour. You will have the rare privilege of joining a hands-on masterclass led directly by Yoshie Naganuma (Natori title: Yoshimura Takeyoshi)—a revered shamisen grandmaster with over 65 years of dedication, who received her title in the lineage of a Living National Treasure (Yoshimura Ijuro VII)—or her direct top disciples.

Your journey begins with a relaxed stroll through nostalgic streets lined with historic wooden townhouses (machiya), interacting with welcoming locals along the way. Afterward, step into a classic townhouse where the master herself will teach you the art and soul of the shamisen.

International guests consistently praise this experience as a highlight of their journey to Japan, celebrating its "unmanufactured, raw authenticity" and the heartwarming interactions with local residents. Don’t just observe Japanese culture—live it through soulful music, rich history, and genuine human connection.

【STORY】

Read the interview and story of Yoshie Naganuma here
https://tsunagite-aj.com/en/stories/fukui-yoshie-naganuma-2/

【HIGHLIGHTS】

• Direct Masterclass: Learn shamisen directly from a Grandmaster in the lineage of a Living National Treasure or her master disciples.
• Explore a Historic Port Town: Walk through Mikuni, a historic Kitamaebune trading port rich in merchant and geisha culture.
• Authentic & Local: Experience a truly unmanufactured Japanese atmosphere and build warm, meaningful connections with local residents.

【SCHEDULE】 

You can choose the start time for this plan. Please choose your preferred start time when you make your reservation.

[0:00] Meet at Mikuni Station

[0:15] View the Townscape from Kinpoji Temple (Commentary on the history of the town that prospered as a trading port) 

[0:30] Stroll along Kitamae Street 

[0:45] Shamisen Experience at Takeyoshi (Experience Japanese Culture) 

[1:45] Dissolve at the Mini Museum “Machinokura”

【THINGS TO NOTE】

• Duration：2 hours
• Meeting point：Mikuni Station, Fukui Prefecture  [MAP]
  2-1 Kitahonmachi, Mikuni-cho, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture 913-0046
• Access：
  Approximately 50 minutes on the Echizen Railway Mikuni Awara Line from Fukui Station
• Number of participants：2–4 people
• Language support：Japanese, English
• Included ：
  ・Shamisen Experience
  ・English Walking Tour Guide
  ・Insurance (¥150 per person for day trips)
• Clothes：
  ・Comfortable walking shoes
• Participation requirements ：
  ・Ages 10 and up
  ・This plan requires a minimum of 2 participants.
  While single bookings are accepted, the full rate for 2 people will be charged.
  For single bookings, please select the 2-person option and note “Participating alone” in the remarks section of the booking form.
  ・Wheelchairs and strollers are not permitted.
  
• Free Wi-Fi ：No
• Toilet：No
• Other things to note：
  ・The walking tour lasts approximately one hour.
  ・Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time. If you are more than 10 minutes late, your reservation will be canceled.
  ・The tour will proceed even in case of rain.

【CANCELLATION POLICY】