Aomori Pref.'s folk music is defined by the hard-hitting style of the guitar-like Tsugaru shamisen. Our reporter observes a shamisen player cum artisan creating the perfect shamisen and takes a free lesson. That night he watches a "shovel shamisen" show at a restaurant where anyone can join in. He also experiences the spectacular floats and music of the lively Nebuta Festival. And, in Nara Pref., our correspondent is entertained by local, amateur pro-wrestling that has a big following in Japan.