introduced to Japan?

Question:What year? Or around what year?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: What year? Or around what year?

In the middle of 16th century, Portuguese monk in Japan taught viola da braccio, kind of violin. But until Meiji period, it was not common. In 1880, with research institute about musics established, American music educator Luther whiting Mason came and taught violin to Japanese. And many European musicians and teachers followed.

So it was in early Meiji period, 1880s.

I'm thinking circa 1920's-30's, but I am by no means sure. As I recall, this issue was mentioned in Shini'chi Suzuki's _Nurtured with Love_ which is a history of his development of the violin pedagogy.

See:
http://tinyurl.com/37qulm