Tsugaru Shamisen Set | Jirō

I named this shamisen “Jirō” — a name that stands for focus, precision, and respect for the craft. The deeper you dive into shamisen culture, the more you see why this name is so fitting. Play it well, consistently, and with intent – but also remember to have the largest possible amount of fun with it 🙂

The instrument is in very good condition – if you treat it right, it will be your faithful companion forever and ever. It’s super comfortable to play – get it before someone else does!

Wood: 

This instrument’s neck is made from koki wood – the most sought-after wood in contemporary shamisen culture. Marvel in its dark sheen and beauty!

Accessories and Skins:

The instrument comes with a vibrant red neo and a classic authentic tsugaru lacquer doukake. I think this combo just looks stunning with the black skins! Also included in the package are a set of fresh strings, a tenjin cap, and a dougomu.

The dou is skinned with Hibiki – the newest generation of synthetic skins with a warm tone that’s closer to the sound of natural skins than any of its predecessors.

Hibiki skin is extremely durable and robust. In comparison to natural skin, you don’t have to worry about humidity or sudden rain when playing the shamisen outdoors (you’ll still want to try to avoid both to protect the wood though). This means, you won’t need to use a washi bag to protect your shamisen’s skin.

Neck:

This neck is 33,75 mm wide and 34 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 30,5 mm wide at the narrow end. Its hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – ends in a sharp edge that makes it possible to play up to position 20 and slightly beyond on this instrument.

Itomaki:

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from an unknown mysterious material! They’re nice and heavy like zouge and very hard. I like heavy itomaki because they give the shamisen’s head some weight – but that’s personal preference. They look super cool for sure and are a sweet contrast to the dark overall design of Touji.

More:

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition, and the instrument’s wood has a luscious deep color and beautiful grain. The neck is crafted in mitsuori style: It can be separated into three pieces and makes travelling with the instrument super easy even if you have to travel with small luggage. The joints are very well crafted which will provide an extra tight fit. They come together with a very satisfying “clack” – if you don’t know what that means: it’s a very good thing and you’re gonna love it!

All you need to add to your set to start playing are a koma, a bachi and a yubisuri. Yubisuri come in different sizes and colors, so you can either match your shamisen’s look or have a colorfur contrasting highlight. There’s a variety of different koma and bachi you can choose from in the shop.

If you need help with picking the right additions to this set, don’t hesitate to send a message and we will find the perfect match for you together!