First Steps in Erhu Playing: A Guide to the Initial Cost of Getting Started

The decision to take up the erhu is to open the door to a new hobby. Offering the chance to explore self-expression in the beautiful form of music, the cultural background of this instrument brings a unique joy to its players. However, when starting a new instrument, it is natural to want to know how much of an initial investment is required. In this blog, we will clearly explain the initial costs required to get started with the erhu. Get ready to start your musical journey!

1. purchasing the erhu itself

Erhu prices range very widely, from beginner models to high-end models for professionals. For beginners, we recommend starting with an affordable erhu.

• Erhu for beginners: about 10,000 yen to 30,000 yen


• Intermediate erhu: approx. 30,000-100,000 yen


• Professional model: 100,000 yen or more

2. bow and strings

Erhu requires a special bow and strings. In most cases, the bow is included with the initial purchase of an erhu, but the strings are consumable, so it is recommended that you purchase replacement strings.

• Bow: Beginner erhu usually include a bow.


• Strings: A set of replacement strings can be purchased for about ³,000 to ³,000.

3. other accessories

Some accessories are useful for playing the erhu.

• Pine needles: Approximately 500 yen to 2,000 yen. It is applied to the hair of the bow and is needed to make it easier to produce sound.


• Music stand: Approximately 2,000 yen to 5,000 yen. Used to hold music sheets.


• Tuner: Approximately 2,000 yen to 5,000 yen. Used to accurately tune the erhu.


• Case: A beginner's erhu usually includes a soft case, but if you wish to purchase a more protective hard case, you can expect to pay between 5,000 yen and 20,000 yen.

4. materials and lesson fees

Although self-study is possible, it is recommended to purchase teaching materials and take lessons to learn basic techniques and performance methods.
Teaching materials include books, DVDs, and apps.

• Teaching materials : For about 2,000 yen to 5,000 yen, you can purchase teaching materials that will teach you basic playing techniques and sheet music.


• Lesson Cost: There are two types of lessons available: in-person lessons at a music school or in person, and online lessons that can be taken anywhere.
  Private lessons generally cost between 3,000 yen and 10,000 yen per lesson, depending on the location and instructor.
  Online lessons tend to be less expensive than face-to-face lessons.

5. Summary

The initial cost to start playing erhu should be estimated at approximately 20,000 yen to 50,000 yen. This includes the cost of a basic erhu set, necessary accessories, and the first few lessons. Of course, choosing a higher quality instrument and accessories will raise this initial cost, but with the minimum investment required to get started, you can begin your path to erhu playing.

The investment in music is worth more than just a hobby.
The spiritual fulfillment and the opportunity to deepen your cultural understanding that comes with playing the erhu is immeasurable in monetary terms. By choosing a quality instrument and accessories while keeping the initial cost low, you will have a hobby that you will love for a long time.

Choosing a quality instrument and accessories to get started is important, though,
Even more important is ・・・・
The most important thing is to enjoy playing it!
The erhu, with its beautiful tone and expressive power, offers infinite possibilities to the player.
Even beginners can learn the basics and build their own playing style.

We hope this guide will help you as you take your first steps into erhu playing.
Taking up a new hobby is a wonderful adventure that will add new color to your life.
Why not start your own musical journey through the erhu instrument?