Hosozao Shamisen Set “Yuri”

You’re on a tight budget and are looking for a beginner level shamisen? Then Yuri could be your match! The style of this shamisen is (hosozao), typically used for Nagauta, Kouta and Hauta playing style.

The neck is crafted from one piece of wood (nobezao) which makes the production process easier and the product thus more affordable. The downside of a one-piece-neck is transportability: You can’t take the neck apart and stow your shamisen away in a small suitcase but have to bring a longcase if you’re taking your shamisen on a trip.

The instrument is made from a variation of karin wood – an established choice for beginner instruments. The instrument comes with a classic purple neo and an orange doukake with a beautiful flower pattern. Also included in the package is a set of new strings, a fujaku strip (position marker) and a dougomu (rubber mat). The dou is skinned with “fibersen” synthetic skins. That’s an older generation of synthetic skin. The tension is great, so the instrument has a full tone. A synthetic skin makes the shamisen a lot less sensitive to rain, humidity or instable climate. The instrument is in fantastic condition.

This neck is 26 mm wide and 28,5 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 tsukigata (the curved end of the tenjin) is in perfect condition, and the instrument’s wood is stained to get a deeper reddish shade.

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.

This instrument is a feast for the eyes and ears alike. 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.

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.