Tokyo:Chopsticks Holder Flute,Choice,Lesson,Live Performance

Tokyo: Chopsticks Holder Flute, Choice, Lesson, Live Performance is a uniquely Japanese experience that combines music, craftsmanship, and culture, all for just $37 per person. Located in the heart of Honshu, this tour offers more than just a demonstration — you get to play the Chopsticks Holder Flute yourself, pick your favorite among a selection, and enjoy a live performance by the instrument’s creator, Gyousui.

Two things particularly stand out: first, the opportunity to select your own flute from a display adds a personal touch that many workshops lack. Second, the live performance by Gyousui, the craftsman himself, creates an intimate and authentic musical moment that’s hard to find elsewhere.

A potential consideration is that this experience is somewhat limited in scope—it’s mainly about learning a specific instrument and listening to a performance. It lasts a reasonable amount of time and is designed for those curious about Japanese music and craftsmanship.

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, cultural curiosities, and authentic musical encounters. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable in a group setting and who want to carry a piece of Japan’s musical tradition home with them.

Key Points

• Unique Japanese instrument: The Chopsticks Holder Flute offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese craftsmanship and sound.
• Interactive learning: Group lessons from a professional instructor make it accessible for all skill levels.
• Personalized choice: Selecting your own flute adds a memorable, personal aspect to the experience.
• Live performance: Gyousui’s concert introduces you to a variety of traditional Japanese instruments, creating an immersive cultural moment.
• Practical and fun: Making sounds and playing along is fun, especially if you enjoy trying new things.
• Gift of a hobby: Carrying your flute home could turn into a lasting hobby or souvenir.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at the Hotel Monday Premium Ueno Okachimachi. We loved that the meeting process is straightforward — just check in at the reception and head up to the 14th floor lounge. This provides a comfortable, central starting point in Tokyo, with easy access for most travelers staying nearby or using public transit.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience is designed to be quite hands-on and engaging. It starts with a brief introduction by the instructor, who explains the principles of sound production on the Chopsticks Holder Flute. This is particularly helpful for those unfamiliar with Japanese musical instruments, as it lays a solid foundation for the rest of the session.

You’ll then get a trial blow with your own flute, learning how to hold and produce sound. This step is crucial because it makes the experience accessible — even if you’re not musically inclined, the instructor’s guidance helps you produce a clear tone quickly.

Once comfortable, you can browse the selection of flutes on display. The option to choose a more expensive or multiple flutes and pay the difference on the spot adds a flexible element, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interest and budget. Many reviews appreciated this choice, noting it made the experience feel more personalized.

The Live Performance Perspective

After mastering the basics, Gyousui performs live, showcasing the Chopsticks Holder Flute along with other traditional instruments like the Hichiriki, Shamisen Shamiko, Shakuhachi, and even more playful instruments like the Metal Kazoo. This variety keeps the concert lively and offers insight into Japan’s musical diversity.

Travelers have noted that hearing Gyousui play is a highlight, with one review mentioning the “glossy tone” of the flute and how fun it was to hear the different sounds. If you’re lucky, you might even be invited to play along—a rare and memorable chance to participate directly in a traditional performance.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

For $37, you get your own Chopstick Holder Flute, a group lesson, and the live performance. Not included are food and drinks, so plan to grab a snack before or after if you’re hungry. The price point is quite reasonable considering the hands-on nature and the cultural insight gained.

Practical Considerations

The activity is conducted in English, making it accessible to international visitors. It’s suitable for most ages over 9, but it’s less ideal for children under that age or those over 95. The session is flexible with a pay later option, which is great if your plans are still up in the air.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes and refrain from alcohol or drugs before joining. The experience lasts around an hour, making it a short but meaningful cultural stop.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews mention how fun and engaging the lesson is. One notes, “It is fun to hear the sound of the flute, and even more fun that the tone is glossy,” emphasizing the quality of the instrument and the joy of making music. Others appreciated the personalized selection of flutes, describing the experience as “something I will carry with me back home.”

Some found the live performance to be a delightful highlight, with Gyousui’s skill making it clear why this craft is cherished in Japan. The opportunity to play along was especially appreciated by those who enjoy participating directly rather than just observing.

A minor point some travelers mentioned is that choosing a more expensive flute or buying multiple pieces involves paying the difference immediately, so a bit of upfront planning helps.

The Experience in Context

Why It’s Valuable

This tour isn’t just about learning a new instrument; it’s about connecting with Japanese culture in an authentic way. The hands-on approach ensures you’ll remember the experience long after Tokyo’s busy streets. The live performance adds a layer of cultural richness, giving you a taste of Japan’s musical traditions.

How It Compares

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this experience focuses on participation rather than passive observation. It’s ideal for those who like tactile, personal engagements, and it offers a lasting souvenir in your own hand-made flute.

Value for the Price

For $37, this experience offers a lot: a lesson, a choice of instrument, and an authentic music performance. It’s a rare opportunity to try your hand at traditional Japanese music without the need for prior experience or expensive lessons elsewhere.

Who Will Enjoy It Most

Travelers with an interest in arts, crafts, or musical instruments will find this especially rewarding. It’s also great for those who enjoy interactive cultural activities that go beyond typical museum visits. The group setting fosters a lively atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers or small groups.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for an authentic, participatory cultural experience in Tokyo that combines music, craftsmanship, and a touch of performance magic, this Chopsticks Holder Flute workshop is a fantastic choice. It’s well-paced, reasonably priced, and offers the chance to bring home your own handcrafted instrument as a memorable souvenir.

While not a comprehensive musical course, it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to try something different and learn about Japan’s musical traditions in a fun and engaging way. The live performance by Gyousui adds an intimate, genuine feel that elevates the entire experience, making it more than just a workshop — it’s a cultural highlight.

Best suited for those who appreciate hands-on activities, music lovers, or anyone wanting a unique story to tell, this tour delivers a slice of Japan’s artistic spirit with charm and authenticity.

FAQ

What is the main focus of this experience?
It’s a hands-on lesson about how to play the Chopsticks Holder Flute, including choosing your own instrument and enjoying a live performance.

Where does the activity start?
It begins at the reception of Hotel Monday Premium Ueno Okachimachi, where you check in and go up to the 14th floor lounge.

Is it suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 9 years old, but older kids who are interested in music might enjoy it.

How long does it last?
The activity typically lasts around an hour, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Are there options for upgrading the flute?
Yes, you can select more expensive flutes or buy multiple flutes, but you’ll need to pay the difference immediately.

Is the experience available in languages other than English?
No, the language of instruction and performance is English.

Can I participate if I have no prior musical experience?
Absolutely, the instructor guides you step-by-step, making it accessible even for beginners.

Is it a good value for the price?
Yes, given the inclusion of your own flute, a lesson, and a live performance, it offers a meaningful cultural experience at a reasonable cost.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing is recommended to easily participate in the hands-on activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: