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    SH-0347 Minyo Shamisen (Kouki wood, Stage Grade- complete set)

    $1,093.00
    Everything you need to play! Suitable for beginners and all…
    Everything you need to play! Suitable for beginners and all skill levels. Wood: Kouki Sao and Tenjin Bachi: refurbished Bachi Itomaki: Ebony and Kouki (Tochi) Skin: Hibiki, Black (synthetic skin) Sawari: Azuma Sawari Neck: Chuuzao (medium neck) Condition: In excellent condition Includes: Everything shown in pictures (Doukake, Bachi, Yubikake, Ito Set, Dou Gomu, Neo, Koma, Naga Fukuro), and a Fujaku Strip.
    Add to cart Details

  • Karin Minyo Shamisen Set

    $1,180.00
    This Karin Minyo Shamisen is built by a close friend…
    This Karin Minyo Shamisen is built by a close friend of Hiroshi Nitta (Masahiro Nitta’s father) in Kanagawa.
    Add to cart Details

  • The KoShamisen

    $1,190.00
    Designed with a perfect half-size sao and a natural skin,…
    Designed with a perfect half-size sao and a natural skin, you can get an authentic shamisen sound with a size convenient enough to take hiking or on the road.  
    Add to cart Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #2 (Figured Bubinga)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #3 (Figured Bubinga)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #5 (Figured Bubinga)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #6 (Figured Bubinga)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #7 (Pomelle Sapele)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #8 (Pomelle Sapele)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen DIY Kit #9 (Red Gum)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • SH-0502 Tsugaru Shamisen (Kouki wood – complete set)

    $1,643.00
    Everything you need to play! Suitable for beginners and all…
    Everything you need to play! Suitable for beginners and all skill levels. Wood: Kouki Sao and Tenjin Bachi: Plastic with faux bekko, and soft bachi case Itomaki: Ebony Skin: Kanade, White (synthetic skin) Sawari: Azuma Sawari Neck: Futozao (thick neck) Condition: In very good condition Includes: Everything shown in pictures (Doukake, Bachi, Yubikake, Ito Set, Dou Gomu, Neo, Koma, Naga Fukuro), and a Fujaku Strip
    Add to cart Details
  • Sale!

    The Starling Shamisen

    $1,750.00 - $2,245.00
    To learn more about the Starling Shamisen please click on…
    To learn more about the Starling Shamisen please click on the link below!

    Special Bonus!

    To help you get started with your brand-new Starling Shamisen, I am including several learning materials for free!
    • Bachido Shamisen Crash Course
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Sakura
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Ringo Bushi
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Yasaburo Bushi
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tosa no Sunayama
    Important: This shamisen does NOT include any accessories required to play (no strings, plectrum, etc). Unless you already have accessories, please consider selecting The Tsugaru Shamisen Accessory Set option for all the essential items required to make your shamisen playable. Otherwise, by selecting The Starling Shamisen only, you will receive the masterfully built shamisen in an unplayable condition. The Tsugaru's Shamisen Accessory Set consists of entry level items so users can get the most affordable option to start playing. If you'd like to select your own accessories (to get preferred colors, choose particular bachi, add extra strings, etc), please go to Essentials and choose the best items for yourself. Need help in curating your shopping list? Learn about the most essential items here! Note: A Bachido membership (free) is required to access the courses. (Note: Each shamisen is built per order. Please allow six to eight weeks for construction)
    Select options Details
  • Sale!

    The Raven Shamisen

    $1,950.00 - $2,450.00
    Easily our most popular model on Bachido! Made by one…
    Easily our most popular model on Bachido! Made by one of the finest shamisen workshops in Japan (Tokyo Wagakki) the Raven is made with Shitan wood and expertly lacquered with jet black urushi. Although the urushi is black, the Raven's color changes depending on the light! The darkness of the black urushi is strong when illuminated, and when the light is gentle, the natural browns of Shitan will emerge. An incredibly cool element of this shamisen! Product Updates: The red acrylic itomaki are now available in both Soragara style (star-shape) and standard Hexagon, and the optional Ayasugi (intricate carving inside the dou) is now available! Note, the Ayasugi option is shown in the product photos. If you choose "No" in the Ayasugi box, the inside of your dou will be smooth. Custom Options: Would you like the itomaki in a different color, shape, or material? Or perhaps a different wood or size? Each shamisen is made to order direct from Tokyo Wagakki, so we can easily accept custom requests! Please send your Custom Raven requests to me via the Contact Us page and let's have a fun chat about the options available! To learn more about the Raven please click on the below link!

    Special Bonus!

    To help you get started with your brand-new Raven Shamisen, I am including several learning materials for free!
    • Bachido Shamisen Crash Course
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Sakura
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tosa no Sunayama
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Kase no Yakko Odori
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Advanced Kamashi
    Important: This shamisen does NOT include any accessories required to play (no strings, plectrum, etc). Unless you already have accessories, please consider selecting The Tsugaru Shamisen Accessory Set option for all the essential items required to make your shamisen playable. Otherwise, by selecting The Raven Shamisen only, you will receive the masterfully built shamisen in an unplayable condition. The Tsugaru's Shamisen Accessory Set consists of entry level items so users can get the most affordable option to start playing. If you'd like to select your own accessories (to get preferred colors, choose particular bachi, add extra strings, etc), please go to Essentials and choose the best items for yourself. Need help in curating your shopping list? Learn about the most essential items here! Note: A Bachido membership (free) is required to access the courses. (Note: Each shamisen is built per order. Please allow six to eight weeks for construction)
    Select options Details

  • Nitta Model: Size 7 Tsugaru Shamisen

    Price range: $2,000.00 through $3,500.00
    This shamisen features a Size 7 dou, which is the…
    This shamisen features a Size 7 dou, which is the largest dou available for shamisen. (Not a very common size, and doukake have to be custom made)
    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details
  • Sale!

    The Eclipse Shamisen

    From $2500 to $2700
    One of our first and most popular shamisen has finally…
    One of our first and most popular shamisen has finally returned! The Eclipse has been absent for many years due to the unavailability of tochikarin (highly figured Karin) in matching colors. For example, the lumber for sao wood was tan and the lumber for the tenjin would be brownish-pink. Why does this matter? Well, unlike other shamisen which can be stained or colored with tinted urushi, the Eclipse is finished with Tokyo Wagakki's renowned polishing technique, which takes two weeks to apply and uses no lacquers nor colorings. Such a polish gives the entire shamisen a deep warm glow, but retains the colors of the natural wood. Thus, while a shamisen with different color tones wouldn't affect the sound, the craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki weren't pleased with the visual aesthetic, and so we paused production of this model... until now! After many years, tochikarin wood in matching colors came back in stock, and we're finally able to bring the Eclipse back to the Bachido Store! Read more about this exciting shamisen below! Also, check out our exciting new Eclipse: Special Edition!

    Color Will Vary

    As you can see in the photo, the left Eclipse has a redder hue than the right Eclipse. There is no difference in quality nor tone, but it's simply the natural color of the polished wood. As stated above, the Eclipse uses no stain or lacquers, so please know that any particular Eclipse shamisen might be redder or tanner than another.
    Select options Details

  • Shitan Tsugaru Shamisen

    $2,633.00
    This Shitan Tsugaru Shamisen is made from Shitan wood, which…
    This Shitan Tsugaru Shamisen is made from Shitan wood, which is higher quality and heavier than Karin wood.
    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Kyle’s Recommended Tsugaru Shamisen Set

    $2,947.00
    This set includes a Tsugaru Shamisen as well as all…
    This set includes a Tsugaru Shamisen as well as all the accessories (including a higher end bachi) needed for a very comfortable playing experience.
    Add to cart Details
  • Sale!

    The Akatsuki Shamisen

    From $3,000 to $3,500
    The Akatsuki Shamisen, made by the legendary makers at Tokyo…
    The Akatsuki Shamisen, made by the legendary makers at Tokyo Wagakki (the oldest and most respected shamisen workshop in Japan). Includes Ayasugi and Non-Slip Itomaki as optional upgrades. Read below to get all the details about this shamisen!

    Special Bonus!

    To help you get started with your brand-new Akatsuki, I am including several learning materials for free!
    • Bachido Shamisen Crash Course
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi (Kyu)
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi (Shin)
    • Premium Shamisen Course: The Nitta Ryu Intensive Technique Pack
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Advanced Kamashi
    Important: This shamisen does NOT include any accessories required to play (no strings, plectrum, etc). Unless you already have accessories, please consider selecting The Tsugaru Shamisen Accessory Set option for all the essential items required to make your shamisen playable. Otherwise, by selecting The Akatsuki Shamisen only, you will receive the masterfully built shamisen in an unplayable condition. The Tsugaru's Shamisen Accessory Set consists of entry level items so users can get the most affordable option to start playing. If you'd like to select your own accessories (to get preferred colors, choose particular bachi, add extra strings, etc), please go to Essentials and choose the best items for yourself. Need help in curating your shopping list? Learn about the most essential items here! Note: A Bachido membership (free) is required to access the courses. (Note: Each shamisen is built per order. Please allow six to eight weeks for construction)
    Select options Details
  • Sale!

    The Eclipse: Special Edition

    From $3,300 to $3,500
    It's no question we love all shamisen, but for me…
    It's no question we love all shamisen, but for me the Eclipse has a special place in my heart. Not only is the color contrast of the tochikarin and shitan fingerboard stunning, and not only was the Eclipse our first model to incorporate the shitan flowing into the tenjin, but the tone balance of the medium-hardness neck with the harder fingerboard makes it a shamisen I still regularly play to this day! In celebration of the Eclipse's return to the Bachido Store, we've released a Special Edition model! What are the perks of this new model? Read below! Note: The Non-Slip Itomaki shown in the pictures are optional add-ons. They are super useful and offers it at half-price for new shamisen, so consider selecting it in the dropdown box! More information about Non-Slip Itomaki below!

    Color Will Vary

    As you can see in the photo, the left Eclipse has a redder hue than the right Eclipse. There is no difference in quality nor tone, but it's simply the natural color of the polished wood. As stated above, the Eclipse uses no stain or lacquers, so please know that any particular Eclipse shamisen might be redder or tanner than another.

    Special Bonus!

    To help you get started with your brand-new Eclipse, I am including several learning materials for free!
    • Bachido Shamisen Crash Course
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi (Kyu)
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tsugaru Jonkara Bushi (Shin)
    • Premium Shamisen Course: The Nitta Ryu Intensive Technique Pack
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Advanced Kamashi
    Note: A Bachido membership (free) is required to access the courses.
    Select options Details

  • MK-001 Almost-New Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen with Zouge Itomaki (Ships from California)

    $3,300.00
    This is a beautiful second-hand Tsugaru Shamisen with prominent tochi…

    This is a beautiful second-hand Tsugaru Shamisen with prominent tochi figuring on the sao and genuine vintage solid zouge itomaki fitted to this tenjin. The sao is highly polished with an oil-finish, and overall this instrument is very high quality.  This shamisen is practically in brand new condition, but the price has been lowered due to the following points.

    1. The lightest amount of wear on the sao topside. No actual kanberi wear, but just the faint indentations from wound strings rubbing against the highly polished surface. The previous owner either had a very light touch, or almost never played it.
    2. There are a few scratch-like dents on the base of the saruo (shown in picture gallery). I'm not sure how it was caused, but seems like something metallic may have been accidentally pressed against the wood.
    3. A few light scuffs on the dou.
    4. This shamisen was polished with an excessive amount of migako (polishing powder). Migako is an essential material for traditionally polishing shamisen to a beautiful shine, but if too much is applied, the pores of the wood become filled with the white powder. The white-filled pores are noticeable in both the tenjin and dou.
    • Wood: Tochi Kouki

    • Skin: Kanade (Can be replaced with Hibiki: Sonic)

    • Sao: Futozao
    • Dou: Tsugaru Size 5

    • Hardware: Genuine Vintage Zouge Itomaki, Azuma Sawari

    • Condition: Second-hand

    Add to cart Details
  • Sale!
    Rose Shamisen

    The Rose Shamisen

    $3,500.00 – $5000.00
    This is a very high-end Tsugaru Shamisen made-to-order by Tokyo…
    This is a very high-end Tsugaru Shamisen made-to-order by Tokyo Wagakki, the oldest and most respected shamisen workshop in Japan. To learn more about the Rose Shamisen please click on the link below!s

    Special Bonus!

    To help you get started with your brand-new Rose Shamisen, I am including several learning materials for free!
    • Bachido Shamisen Crash Course
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Sakura
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Ringo Bushi
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Yasaburo Bushi
    • Premium Shamisen Course: Tosa no Sunayama
    Important: This shamisen does NOT include any accessories required to play (no strings, plectrum, etc). Unless you already have accessories, please consider selecting The Tsugaru Shamisen Accessory Set option for all the essential items required to make your shamisen playable. Otherwise, by selecting The Rose Shamisen only, you will receive the masterfully built shamisen in an unplayable condition. The Tsugaru's Shamisen Accessory Set consists of entry level items so users can get the most affordable option to start playing. If you'd like to select your own accessories (to get preferred colors, choose particular bachi, add extra strings, etc), please go to Essentials and choose the best items for yourself. Need help in curating your shopping list? Learn about the most essential items here! Note: A Bachido membership (free) is required to access the courses. (Note: Each shamisen is built per order. Please allow nine to eleven weeks for construction, and feel free to contact store (at) bachido (dot) com if you have questions :-) )
    Select options Details

  • TW-003 Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen from Tokyo Wagakki (Ships from California)

    $3,500.00
    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker…

    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker in Japan (sadly, there are almost never signatures nor identification marks from shamisen makers), my guess is it was made in the 1990s to early 2000s. There is a very light amount of tochi (figure) in the kouki, but has beautiful deep red throughout. This instrument has been fully refreshed to brand new condition by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki, which includes their signature mirror-like polishing technique. This shamisen can be skinned with the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available).

    • Wood: Deep red Kouki with light amount of tochi figuring (Sao & Tenjin).

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (White or Black)

    • Itomaki: Elite Itomaki (African Blackwood w/ Amboyna Burl caps)

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

    Add to cart Details

  • TW-004 Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen from Tokyo Wagakki (Ships from California)

    $3,500.00
    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker…

    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker in Japan (sadly, there are almost never signatures nor identification marks from shamisen makers), my guess is it was made in the 1990s to early 2000s. There is a moderate amount of tochi (figure) in the kouki sao, but has beautiful deep red throughout. This instrument has been fully refreshed to brand new condition by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki, which includes their signature mirror-like polishing technique. This shamisen can be skinned with the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available).

    Note: The deep vivid reds in the kouki is more striking in darker rooms with direct light. I've included a few photos of the tenjin in a regular room so you can see it's darker appearance with ambient lighting.

    • Wood: Deep red Kouki with moderate amount of tochi figuring (Sao).

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (White or Black)

    • Itomaki: Elite Itomaki (Curly Siamese Rosewood)

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

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  • TW-005 Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen from Tokyo Wagakki (Ships from California)

    $3,500.00
    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker…

    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker in Japan (sadly, there are almost never signatures nor identification marks from shamisen makers), my guess is it was made in the mid to late 2000s. There is a minimal amount of tochi (figure) in the kouki sao, but has beautiful deep red throughout. This instrument has been fully refreshed to brand new condition by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki, which includes their signature mirror-like polishing technique. This shamisen can be skinned with the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available).

    There are a few notable points for this shamisen which affect the price, so please read the longer description below.

    • Wood: Deep red Kouki with minimal amount of tochi figuring (Sao).

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (White or Black)

    • Itomaki: Elite Itomaki (Amboyna Burl and Curly Siamese Rosewood)

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

    Add to cart Details

  • TW-006 Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen (Chuzao) from Tokyo Wagakki (Ships from California)

    $4,800.00
    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker…

    While this shamisen was previously built by an unknown maker in Japan (sadly, there are almost never signatures nor identification marks from shamisen makers), there is a sticker inside the dou with a date of Heisei 6 (1993), so that is most likely when this shamisen was crafted. There is a high amount of tochi (figure) in the kouki sao, although a majority of the tochi is on the side of the sao towards the audience. There is also beautiful deep red throughout. This instrument has been fully refreshed to brand new condition by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki, which includes their signature mirror-like polishing technique. This shamisen can be skinned with the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available).

    There are a few notable points for this shamisen which affect the price, so please read the longer description below.

    • Wood: Deep red Kouki with high amount of tochi figuring (Sao), but only on the audience-side of the sao.

    • Sao: Chuzao
    • Trimmings: Large Azuma Sawari, Ayasugi, Kinbozo (gold fittings)

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (White or Black)

    • Itomaki: Elite Itomaki (Amboyna Burl and Curly Siamese Rosewood)

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

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  • Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen

    $5,754.00
    This is a standard kouki shamisen, made in Japan. Honestly,…
    This is a standard kouki shamisen, made in Japan. Honestly, I would recommend checking out the Rose Shamisen, which is also made from kouki but has more customization options and has more information, pictures, and video available.
    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • TW-007 Brand-New Vintage Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen (Ships from California)

    $9,500.00
    The Best of Both Worlds: Vintage Materials Meets Modern Perfection.…

    The Best of Both Worlds: Vintage Materials Meets Modern Perfection. Experience a rare "Brand-New Vintage" Tsugaru Shamisen. Crafted from "Golden Age" Red Sandalwood (Kouki) with extraordinary tochi (tiger-stripe figuring) rarely seen in modern harvests, this instrument has been 100% restored by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki. Featuring the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available), this is a collector-grade instrument with the playability of a brand-new professional model.

    • Wood: Highest-grade old growth Kouki with high level of Tochi figuring (Sao & Tenjin) and ribbons of reds. Unlike the TW-001 which requires studio lighting to bring out the intense figure, the tochi on this shamisen is very visible in ambient light.

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (White)

    • Hardware: Gold fittings (Kinbozo), Phoenix Elite Itomaki

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

    Add to cart Details

  • TW-001 Brand-New Vintage Kouki Tsugaru Shamisen (Ships from California)

    $10,000.00
    [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8hd58MXJgw[/embed] The Best of Both Worlds: Vintage Materials Meets Modern…

    The Best of Both Worlds: Vintage Materials Meets Modern Perfection. Experience a rare "Brand-New Vintage" Tsugaru Shamisen. Crafted from "Golden Age" Red Sandalwood (Kouki) with extraordinary tochi (tiger-stripe figuring) rarely seen in modern harvests, this instrument has been 100% restored by the legendary craftsmen at Tokyo Wagakki. Featuring the brand new Hibiki Sonic synthetic skin (not yet publicly available), this is a collector-grade instrument with the playability of a brand-new professional model.

    • Wood: Highest-grade old growth Kouki with heavy Tochi figuring (Sao & Tenjin). It literally doesn't get any higher grade than this.

    • Skin: Hibiki Sonic (Choice of Black or White)

    • Hardware: Gold fittings (Kinbozo), Zouge Itomaki

    • Condition: Professionally refreshed to Brand New condition.

    Add to cart Details

  • Shamisen Fingerboard #1 (Laotian Birdseye Rosewood)

    $100.00
    Add a super cool Laotian Birdseye Rosewood fingerboard to your…
    Add a super cool Laotian Birdseye Rosewood fingerboard to your Shamisen DIY Kit! The fingerboard includes a Tenjin Extension, which is a strip of wood which can be glued onto the tenjin before the shaping process. Both fingerboard and extension are sealed with shellac. Unlike the Pua Rosa fingerboards, these Rosewood fingerboards have ample margin, which means you don't need to be as careful about perfectly centered placement when gluing. Even if you're off center by a millimeter or two, you will still have amazing results after final shaping.
    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details

  • Shamisen Fingerboard #7 (Laotian Birdseye Rosewood)

    $100.00
    Add a super cool Laotian Birdseye Rosewood fingerboard to your…
    Add a super cool Laotian Birdseye Rosewood fingerboard to your Shamisen DIY Kit! The fingerboard includes a Tenjin Extension, which is a strip of wood which can be glued onto the tenjin before the shaping process. Both fingerboard and extension are sealed with shellac. Unlike the Pua Rosa fingerboards, these Rosewood fingerboards have ample margin, which means you don't need to be as careful about perfectly centered placement when gluing. Even if you're off center by a millimeter or two, you will still have amazing results after final shaping.
    Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Details
  • Out of stock

    Shamisen DIY Kit #1 (Figured Bubinga)

    Price range: $1,400.00 through $1,780.00
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already…
    Whether you've dreamed of building your own shamisen or already aspire to become a shamisen luthier, these kits provide all the wood and parts you need to create a high-level instrument! (Please note: the kit does NOT include tools, glues, or finishes.) After selecting your favorite set, be sure to pick up a fingerboard (available in the main 'Shamisen DIY Kits' page) to achieve the best tone and a stunning appearance!

    Each kit includes roughly shaped shamisen parts (Tenjin, Sao, Nakago, Dou), all of the gold fittings (Rindo, Azuma Sawari, Kamigoma, and Zagane), Elite Itomaki (sanding and polishing required), and a copy of Shamisen of Japan.

    These kits are designed for individuals who want the complete experience of building a shamisen and either have a workshop or plan to obtain their own tools. The kits consist primarily of curated materials that are minimally processed to provide the maker with a full hands-on building experience. The quality of the final product depends on your skill and craftsmanship. Be sure to read the main description on the Shamisen DIY Kit category page for full details and general information about these kits.

    Add-Ons

    Want an even smoother building experience? Here's a few optional services which could be useful!
    1. Building Templates These templates are cut from high quality acrylic and are sized for a standard futozao (Tsugaru) shamisen with a Size 5 dou. Although the included book Shamisen of Japan has paper templates for you, the paper does wear down after multiple tracings. If you plan to build multiple shamisen, having durable acrylic templates on hand is very delightful.
    2. One-on-One Video Calls with Kyle (Four 30-minute video calls) Although building shamisen is overall an incredible journey, specific aspects (especially joints making) can be quite frustrating. And in those times, sometimes having a teacher present can make a huge difference! With this service, Kyle can be available on video to answer your questions and offer tricks and solutions to challenging obstacles.

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  • Out of stock
    Artisinal Coffee

    Artisinal Coffee

    $30.00
    Because coffee. Why not?
    Because coffee. Why not?
    Details
  • Out of stock

    Bamboo Boat Koma (Half Bone)

    $33.00
    This koma is made with a bamboo (Madake) base and…
    This koma is made with a bamboo (Madake) base and a bone saddle. While it is technically sized for Tsugaru style, it can be used with any shamisen type. Scroll below for sound test video!
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  • Out of stock

    Susudake Bamboo Koma (Half Bone)

    $35.00
    I must admit, this is my absolute favorite koma. It’s…
    I must admit, this is my absolute favorite koma. It’s both great sounding and a gorgeous work of art. This koma is made from susudake (soot bamboo) and half bone top is expertly carved with three waves (or some might see fangs) curving downward. All of the bamboo/wood koma on Bachido sound great, but I particularly like this one for both it’s style and sound! Scroll below for sound test video!
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  • Out of stock
    Half Bekko Snakewood

    Snakewood Koma (Half Bekko)

    $55.00
    Snakewood base with half bekko saddle. Height is 6.35mm Please be…
    Snakewood base with half bekko saddle. Height is 6.35mm Please be careful with handling, as snakewood can be brittle!
    Details
  • Out of stock
    Electronic Tuner

    Electronic Tuner

    $56.00
    A basic electronic tuner. Honestly, you can find so many…
    A basic electronic tuner. Honestly, you can find so many good electronic tuners on Amazon or musical instrument retailers at a lower price.
    Details
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