#Japan #Tokyo #Trip Port #Masanari Mukouyama #shamisen experience

Experience the Art of Shamisen with a Master Craftsman

In an exciting partnership, Trip Port Co., Ltd., headquartered in Meguro, Tokyo, has teamed up with renowned traditional craftsman Masanari Mukouyama to launch an innovative experience for foreign tourists: a shamisen-making and chopstick-crafting tour. Mukouyama, born in 1951 and recognized as a traditional craftsman by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, continues to practice the techniques passed down since the Edo period. He is among the few remaining artisans dedicated to creating shamisen using the comprehensive skills that cover everything from skin stretching to the final touch, making him a rare gem in the world of traditional crafts.

This initiative transforms Mukouyama's previous offering—a chopstick crafting experience using shamisen offcuts—to a program that is fully accessible and enjoyable for international visitors. With Trip Port’s expertise in tourism management, the program offers an engaging learning environment that welcomes foreign participants with open arms.

The Essence of the Experience: Journey into the Craft

Participants in this unique experience become apprentices under Mukouyama's guidance. They delve into the very first stages of shamisen craftsmanship: chopstick-making. The foundational belief among shamisen artisans is that understanding the properties of wood begins with mastering the art of creating chopsticks. Through this process, participants can appreciate the texture and variety of wood, laying the groundwork for their future endeavors in shamisen creation.

Once the chopsticks are crafted, the experience culminates with a shamisen performance session, where participants have the opportunity to play this iconic Japanese instrument under the expert supervision of Mukouyama himself. It’s an invaluable experience, as few can say they have learned directly from a skilled craftsman in such an intimate setting.

Trip Port’s Integral Role

In this collaborative effort, Trip Port has played a pivotal role in revamping the experience to cater to foreign tourists. Key aspects of their contribution include:

• - Redesigning the program for clarity: Making the structure and presentation understandable for non-Japanese speakers.
• - Marketing support: Enhancing outreach through online travel agencies (OTAs) and strengthening connections with travel agencies.
• - Managing foreign reservations: Handling all aspects of bookings from abroad.
• - Providing English support: Offering inquiries and pre-arrival information in English.
• - On-site staff arrangements: Ensuring that English-speaking guides and interpreters are available on the day of the experience.

This comprehensive support system allows Mukouyama, who is not fluent in English, to comfortably welcome foreign guests, ensuring a rich cultural exchange.

About Trip Port Co., Ltd.

Trip Port is a leading company in tourism transformation that supports businesses wishing to create unique experiential content for foreign tourists. They provide a one-stop solution for inbound tourism operations, helping businesses create a favorable environment for welcoming international visitors with confidence. If you’re a business interested in expanding your offerings or increasing your visitor numbers, Trip Port is here to assist you.

For inquiries regarding this initiative, please contact Trip Port Co., Ltd. through their contact form.