Hosozao Beginner Shamisen Set “Hanako”

I named this shamisen “Hanako” (花子) because it sounds innocent and cute and perfect for someone’s first shamisen. Hanako translates to “flower child”, and the flower motifs on the doukake are a fantastic match, don’t you think? When I think of flowers, I also think of blossoming, growth, beauty, and joy. All the things that you will incorporate in your shamisen practice! Playing this instrument is so much fun, and Hanako will make it easy for you to fall in love with this music even more deeply.

The instrument is in very good condition – it shall make you happy for many, many years to come.

The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta, Kouta and Hauta playing style. Neck sizes vary within the building types, and this one is pretty average and will be comfortable to play for players with smaller hands.

Wood:

The instrument is made from karin wood – an established choice for beginner instruments.

Accessories and Skins:

The instrument comes with an orange doukake with stylized golden flowers and a bright orange neo. Also included in the package is a set of fresh strings, a dougomu, and a tenjin cap! As a bonus, you’re getting joint caps on top of that that will help keep the joints in perfect shape if you travel a lot and take the instrument apart. The dou (body) is freshly skinned with hibiki synthetic skins on the front and back. No need for a washi bag – synthetic skins are very durable and sturdy and are reliable in every climate.

Neck:

This neck is 25,75 mm wide and 27 mm high at the top and widens slightly towards the dou. The fingerboard is 25 mm wide at the narrow end. The elegantly slanted hatomune – the part where the neck enters the sound box – is typical for hosozao shamisen associated with Nagauta style. You can play up to position 19 with this kind of neck.

Itomaki:

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.

More:

The tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition, and the instrument’s wood has a beautiful reddish shade and beautiful grain. 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.

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.

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