$3,500.00 USD
$2,950.00 USD
Save 16%
RAW JAPAN ART
$3,500.00 USD
$2,950.00 USD
Save 16%
Authentic paulownia wood construction
Crafted by artisan, Fujii-san, in Hiroshima prefecture
Includes 14 bridge set, torii stand, songbook stand, and carrying case
Estimated Delivery: 1 month after order
Free Shipping on All Orders
Watch How It’s Made
Authentically Made in Japan
Handcrafted by Shokunin Fujii
impeccable traditional sound
About the Fukuyama Koto
Whether you create it or simply consume it, you love music. Especially the ancient tunes of Japan.
They make you think of the silent nights and warm spring mornings where you watch nature move its course.
But constantly playing the stringed tales of ancient Japan on streaming sites kills the vibe. It’s all starting to feel dry and dull.
You want the raw feeling of the strings floating across your skin.
The player dawned in a flowered kimono. Eyelids lowered as she wields the seductive forces of the Koto across your palette.
But Japan isn’t next door. Current world circumstances make it even harder to reach in person.
No matter. That is why I am here.
While I’m no musician, I understand how they pull together seemingly disparate energies together to form one cohesive feeling.
One emotion that tells you the story of you wandering through "your Japan."
That’s why I traveled to Fukuyama City in the Hiroshima region to meet one of the last official Koto producers in Japan.
I'm not talking about the mass, machine-produced Koto that make the tunes sound...wooden.
I'm talking about authentic paulownia wood massaged by experienced hands into the same Koto you could hear centuries ago in the courts of royals and exclusive artists salons.
Fujii-san is one of the last of a dying breed. He works alone, while his wife handles logistics of orders and customer service.
I called him and drove nearly 6 hours to document his story in his studio.
Then, I packaged it all for you to dig into once you order this Koto.
Simply hit the “Add to Cart” button.
Then his story and all the magic that Koto holds in its jaws will be yours.
Otherwise, you will remain stuck in the ruts of streaming wastelands where they rob you of your sensory experience and the true essence of what raw instrumental music can do for the soul.
Details
Shokunin: Fujii
Made in: Hiroshima prefecture
Dimensions: 6 ft
Strings: 13 (17-string bass & 25-string available upon custom request via email)
Carvings: Sudare (aya-sugi available on custom request via email)
Care: Avoid direct sunlight. Store in a room with good airflow.
Inclusions
14 bridge set
torii stand
songbook stand
carrying case - making the Koto easy to transport wherever you decide to play or display it.
Care Instructions
To maintain the quality of your Fukuyama koto, daily maintenance is essential. Wipe with a dry cloth, especially the parts between “Unkaku” and “Ryukaku”. Do not use oil to polish the koto as it may affect the sound. For storage, keep the koto laying flat in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. Avoid direct exposure to hot air, extreme temperature differences, and humid places. If storing for a long period, remove the koto from its box occasionally and cover it with a cloth to prevent dampness. The koto is designed for indoor use, so avoid using it outdoors, especially in the rain.
Shipping & Returns
Every product comes with Free Shipping.
I distribute worldwide via Kuroneko Yamato, DHL, FedEx, UPS, and/or First Class Priority Mail.
In stock orders will ship within 1 week and be delivered within 1 month of your order (depending on holidays and the status of the global supply chain).
Custom orders can take up to 3 ~ 6 months to be delivered.
Considering global supply chain issues and the diligent process the shokunin go through to create world-class art, please be patient.
I will communicate with you throughout the process. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to email me here:
info@rawjapanart.com
Individually handcrafted
Each Koto is handcrafted, eschewing mass-production techniques or machinery, which ensures that every instrument is unique and maintains the traditional methods of Koto production.
Constructed using genuine
paulownia wood
Paulownia wood is a material renowned for its acoustic properties and traditionally used in the making of Japanese musical instruments.
Captures the spirit of instrumental Japanese music
Immerse in the rich and ancient musical tradition of Japan by playing or listening to this Koto.
Get to Know the Shokunin
Fujii-san is one of the last of a dying breed. He runs a small team of 2 other artisans, while his wife handles logistics of orders and customer service.
Real people, Real experiences
The koto projects amazingly well, with clear tones throughout its range. It looks stunning as well, so it's both art for the eyes and the ears.
Steven W. / Washington, USA
I'm building a house...and I will make [these crafts] visible in my living room...so that I can always see it...and to show off to people when they visit.
John M. / Massachusetts, USA
I'm very happy with my ichigenkin. It's beautiful to look at, and very soothing to play
Steven W. / Washington, USA