Hosozao Shamisen Set “Michiyo”

I am not a fan of nougat, but I am a huge fan of those dark nougat swirls that make the grain so dangerously delicious. The beautiful grain really pops as soon as it catches a bit of light. Just look at the tenjin shots. Are you drooling yet?

The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta playing style. Because less wood is used in building, this kind of shamisen is more affordable than chunkier types and is very popular among people first trying out playing the shamisen.

The instrument is made from shitan wood – a high-class hardwood traditionally used for shamisen. The instrument comes with a red neo. The doukake has an unusual graphic pattern that’s a contrast to the usual flower-laden doukake around. Also included in the package is a set of attached strings and a tenjin cap. The dou is skinned with natural skins that will wrap you in the authentic and warm sound of shamisen music. The tension is very good on both sides, so the instrument sounds great!

This neck is 24,5 mm wide and 26 mm high/thick at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. It has an elegantly slanted hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – which is typical for hosozao shamisen associated with Nagauta style. You can play up to position 19 with this kind of neck. The fingerboard is freshly flattened and the joints have a good and tight fit. There’s a little imperfection at the upper fingerboard joint (see photos). It’s does not affect playing though. There’s also a little dent at the saruo (bottom curve of the sao) – who knows what has bumped into this poor shamisen!

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition. The neck is crafted in mitsuori style: It can be separated into three parts. This makes travelling with the shamisen very easy – even if you have to get by with light and small luggage.

The itomaki (tuning pegs) are made from ebony wood and are carved in a traditional way that makes them easy to grip despite their slender built.

If you have any further questions, reach out and send me a message and I’ll be happy to help.

All you need to add to your set to start playing are a koma, a bachi and a yubisuri. Depending on the style you intend to play and your personal preferences, you want to pick a certain kind of koma and bachi. Yubisuri come in different sizes, and I didn’t want to deprive you of the difficult yet fun choice between all the wonderful colors. I also recommend getting an adhesive dougomu or a hizagomu that will prevent the instrument from slipping off your thigh.

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.