Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com

1. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide)  34  16 minutes read Charles Rios • May 9, 2023 Are you fascinated by the enchanting sounds of traditional Japanese music? If so, you’ll love this comprehensive guide to the top 20 traditional Japanese musical instruments that you should know in 2023. Japan boasts a rich cultural heritage, and its traditional music has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries. From the delicate sounds of the koto to the thunderous beats of the taiko drums, these instruments embody the spirit of Japan and its people. This guide from Top Best Global is for anyone interested in traditional Japanese instruments. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a student of Japanese culture, or simply curious about these instruments’ unique sounds, we’ve got you covered. We’ll delve into each instrument’s history, playing techniques, and distinctive sounds, so you can develop a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into making them. By the end of this guide, you’ll have gained a comprehensive understanding of the different types of traditional Japanese instruments, including string, percussion, and wind instruments. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the world of traditional Japanese musical instruments, and discover the beauty and diversity of Japan’s rich musical heritage. Table of Contents https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 1/25

2. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com 1. What are the traditional Japanese musical instruments? Traditional Japanese musical instruments, or wagakki (和楽器) in Japanese, are an integral part of Japan’s cultural heritage. They are used in various genres of traditional Japanese music, including folk music, classical music, and court music. Wagakki encompass a diverse range of instruments, including stringed instruments such as the koto and shamisen, wind instruments like the shakuhachi and fue, and percussion instruments like the taiko and tsuzumi. These instruments are often made from natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and silk, and are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. In traditional Japanese music, wagakki are used to create a wide range of sounds and moods, from delicate and serene to bold and thunderous. They are often played in ensembles, with each instrument contributing to a unique and harmonious sound that reflects Japan’s rich musical culture. Overall, wagakki play a significant role in Japan’s cultural identity, and continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by people around the world. 2. What are the three types of Japanese traditional instruments? Japanese traditional instruments are broadly categorized into three types: string instruments, wind instruments, and percussion instruments. Related Articles https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 2/25

3. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Top 15 Best Japanese Watch Brands To Know In 2023  April 26, 2023 Top 10 Best Japanese Shoe Brands You Must Know 2023  April 26, 2023 Top 20+ Best Japanese Menswear Brands To Know (2023 Updated)  April 26, 2023 Top 20 Most Expensive Pokemon Cards In The World (2023)  April 26, 2023 String instruments: These include instruments such as the koto, shamisen, and biwa. They are played by plucking or strumming the strings. Wind instruments: Wind instruments in Japanese traditional music include the shakuhachi, fue, hichiriki, and nohkan. They are played by blowing air into the instrument. Percussion instruments: These include the taiko, tsuzumi, and various types of gongs and bells. They are played by striking or hitting the instrument with sticks, hands, or other objects. 3. Top 15 Traditional Japanese Musical Instruments You Should Know 2023 1.1. Shakuhachi (尺八) Shakuhachi is a traditional Japanese wind instrument that has been around for over a thousand years. Its haunting and meditative sound has captivated people around the world and has even been used in contemporary music genres. Shakuhachi is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute that has a long and fascinating history. It is one of the oldest traditional Japanese musical instruments, dating back to the 8th century, https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 3/25

4. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com and has been used in a wide range of musical styles, from classical court music to folk and Zen Buddhist meditation music. Shakuhach is a Japanese end-blown bamboo flute. Source: Internet The shakuhachi is a simple bamboo flute that is played by blowing air into it. It has four finger holes on the front and one thumb hole on the back, and the player changes the pitch by varying the position of their fingers and lips. Originally, the shakuhachi was used by Japanese monks as a tool for meditation and spiritual practice. The long, drawn-out notes of the instrument were believed to induce a trance-like state and promote inner peace and enlightenment. Today, the shakuhachi is still used in meditation and Zen practices, as well as in various forms of traditional and contemporary music. It is often featured in performances of traditional Japanese music, as well as in fusion genres that combine elements of Japanese and Western music. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 4/25

5. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com 1.2. Koto (箏) One of the most popular traditional Japanese stringed instruments is the Koto. Koto is one of the most iconic traditional Japanese musical instruments. It is a stringed instrument that has been played in Japan for over a millennium and is still widely popular today. The koto (箏) is national instrument of Japan. Source: Internet The koto has a long and narrow body made of wood, with thirteen strings that are stretched over movable bridges. The player plucks the strings with picks called tsume to produce a unique and delicate sound. Originally, the koto was played in the imperial court and aristocratic circles as a solo instrument, but over time it became a popular instrument in various forms of traditional Japanese music. Today, it is often played in ensembles, along with other traditional instruments such as the shamisen and shakuhachi. One of the most famous pieces of music played on the koto is “Sakura,” a traditional Japanese folk song that has become synonymous with Japan’s cultural heritage. The koto’s gentle and melodic sound makes it a perfect instrument for playing traditional Japanese music and has made it popular among musicians around the world. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 5/25

6. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com 1.3. Sanshin (三線) Sanshin is a traditional Okinawan stringed musical instrument that is similar to the shamisen, but with its unique design and playing style. This instrument from Okinawa (Japan) is often called the “Okinawan shamisen” and its sound is distinctive and unmistakable. The sanshin (三線) is an Okinawan musical instrument. Source: Internet The Sanshin has a long, thin body made of snakeskin stretched over a wooden frame, with three strings that are plucked with a plectrum called a bachi. The instrument has a unique sound that is both bright and warm, making it perfect for playing Okinawan folk music. Originally, the Sanshin was used by traveling musicians and storytellers who roamed the Okinawan countryside, performing for villagers and entertaining them with their music and tales. Over time, it became a popular instrument among the Okinawan people and is now considered a vital part of Okinawa’s cultural heritage. Today, the Sanshin is still widely played in Okinawa and has become popular throughout Japan and other parts of the world. It is often played in ensembles, along with other traditional Okinawan instruments such as the taiko drum and the fue flute. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 6/25

7. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com >> See more: Best Japanese Fishing Rod Brands 1.4. Shime-Daiko (締太鼓) Shime-Daiko, also known as the “tightening drum” is a type of Japanese taiko drum that is played in various forms of traditional Japanese music and performance. It is a small, high-pitched Japanese drum that is typically played with bachi, or traditional Japanese drumsticks. The shime-daiko (締め太鼓) is a small Japanese drum. Source: Internet The Shime-Daiko drum is made of a wooden body that is covered with tightly stretched animal hide, such as cowhide or deerhide. The drumhead is then tightened using ropes that are wound around the drum, which can be adjusted to change the pitch of the drum. The Shime-Daiko is often used in ensemble drumming performances, and is known for its sharp, piercing sound. It is also used in traditional Japanese festivals and ceremonies, including Shinto weddings and funerals. In these ceremonies, the Shime-Daiko is often played in combination with other taiko drums and Japanese musical instruments, creating a powerful and memorable sound. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 7/25

8. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Playing the Shime-Daiko requires a great deal of skill and practice, as the drum must be struck in a precise manner to produce the desired sound. The drum is often played in fast, intricate rhythms, making it a challenging instrument to master. 1.5. Shamisen (三味線) The Shamisen (or samisen) is a traditional Japanese three-stringed instrument that has been used in various styles of music for centuries. It is often referred to as the “Japanese banjo” due to its similar construction and playing style. The shamisen has a long and rich history and is still a popular instrument in traditional and contemporary Japanese music. The shamisen is a stringed instrument, one of the traditional musical instruments of Japan. Source: Internet The shamisen consists of a long, narrow neck made of wood, with a resonator body covered with cat or dog skin. The strings are made of silk or nylon and are stretched tightly over the body of the instrument, and plucked with a plectrum called a bachi. The shamisen is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from delicate and subtle to powerful and dramatic. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 8/25

9. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Originally, the shamisen was used in court music, but over time it became a popular instrument among the common people, particularly in the entertainment districts of Tokyo and Osaka. It was often used to accompany kabuki theater, a popular form of Japanese drama, and also became popular in geisha and courtesan culture. Today, the shamisen is still widely played in Japan and around the world, and is used in various styles of traditional and contemporary music. It is also a popular instrument in taiko drum ensembles and other Japanese musical groups. Learning to play the shamisen requires a great deal of practice and dedication, as the instrument has a unique playing style and requires a deep understanding of Japanese music and culture. 1.6. Biwa (琵琶) Biwa, also known as the Japanese lute, is a traditional Japanese musical instrument that has been used for centuries in various styles of music, from court music to folk and storytelling music. It has a unique shape and a distinct sound that is both haunting and beautiful, and it has played an important role in the history and culture of Japan. BIWA (琵琶) is a musical instrument in traditional Japanese strings. Source: Internet https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 9/25

10. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com The biwa is a pear-shaped stringed instrument that is made from wood, with four strings stretched across a wooden bridge. The Biwa – musical instrument in traditional Japanese strings are played with a large, flat plectrum called a bachi, and the biwa is held upright while it is played. The biwa has a warm and resonant sound that is often used to accompany vocalists, and it is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from delicate and soft to strong and powerful. 1.7. Taiko (太鼓) Taiko (太鼓), or wadaiko (和太鼓) which means “big drum” in Japanese, is a traditional percussion instrument that has been used in Japan for centuries. It is a powerful and dynamic instrument that is often used in festivals, ceremonies, and performances, and has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. Taiko is an Japanese percussion instruments. Source: Internet The Japanese Taiko drum is a large drum that is made from a hollowed- out wooden body covered with animal skin. It is played with large wooden sticks called bachi, which are used to strike the drumhead with a combination of different techniques and rhythms. The taiko is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from deep and thunderous to sharp and staccato. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 10/25

11. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Originally, taiko was used in religious ceremonies and festivals, but over time it became a popular instrument in various forms of music and entertainment. Today, there are many different styles of taiko, each with its own unique playing techniques and rhythms. Taiko groups, or kumi-daiko, are also common and consist of multiple drummers playing together in a synchronized and powerful performance. 1.8. Kokyu (胡弓) Kokyu is one of the most popular traditional Japanese instruments. It is a type of bowed string instrument that has been played for centuries in various forms of music. Its unique sound is captivating, haunting, and beautiful all at once, and it’s capable of producing a wide range of tones and emotions. The kokyū is a traditional Japanese string instrument. Source: Internet The kokyu has a long and thin body made of wood, with three or four strings stretched across a wooden bridge. It’s played with a bow made from horsehair that’s drawn across the strings to create sound. The instrument is held upright while playing, and it can produce a range of sounds from soft and delicate to strong and powerful. Originally, the kokyu was used in court music and was a symbol of nobility and refinement. However, it became popular among the common people https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 11/25

12. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com over time and was used in various forms of music, including folk music and storytelling. Today, the kokyu is still widely played in Japan and is used in traditional and contemporary styles of music. 1.9. Naruko (鳴子) Are you curious about the unique percussion instrument used in traditional Japanese folk music? Look no further than Naruko! Naruko, also known as Naruko clappers or Naruko drums, are a fascinating and distinctive type of Japanese percussion instrument. Made of two wooden clappers that are held in each hand and struck together rhythmically, the Naruko produces a bright, sharp sound that is instantly recognizable. Naruko is Japanese percussion instrument used in Yosakoi dance. Source: Internet With its roots in Japanese folk music, the Naruko is often used in festivals and performances, including the lively Awa Odori dance and Yosakoi- Festival (Yosakoi-Dance). Playing the Naruko requires skill and precision, https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 12/25

13. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com as the clappers must be struck together in a precise rhythm to produce the desired sound. The angle and pressure of the clappers can also be adjusted to produce a range of different tones and effects. Not only is the Naruko an important part of Japanese cultural heritage, but it has also gained popularity around the world as a unique and fascinating instrument. So if you’re looking to add some Japanese flair to your music or performance, consider incorporating the Naruko! 1.10. Kane (鉦) Kane, also known as the “gong, handbell” in English, is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that has been used in various forms of Japanese music and performance for centuries. This traditional Japanese instrument is a large metal disc that is struck with a mallet to produce a resonant sound that is often used to mark significant moments or transitions in music and ceremony. The kane is a type of dish-shaped bell from Japan. Source: Internet Kane are typically made of bronze or brass and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They are often decorated with intricate patterns or designs, https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 13/25

14. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com and can be hung from a stand or held by a rope to be struck. In traditional Japanese music, the Kane is used to signal the beginning and end of a piece, as well as to accentuate specific moments within the music. Moreover, it is also used in Shinto and Buddhist ceremonies, where it is struck to signify important moments such as the beginning or end of a prayer. Playing the Kane requires skill and precision, as the player must strike the gong in a specific manner to produce the desired sound. The angle, speed, and force of the strike can all affect the sound of the Kane, allowing for a wide range of tonal variations. 1.11. Tsuzumi (鼓) Tsuzumi is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that has been used for centuries in various forms of Japanese music and dance. It is a hand-held drum that is played by striking the drumhead with the hand and adjusting the tension of the ropes on the sides to produce different tones. The tsudzumi or tsuzumi is a hand drum of Japanese origin. Source: Internet The Tsuzumi comes in two sizes, the larger one known as the ōtsuzumi and the smaller one known as the kotsuzumi. Both types of Tsuzumi have a hollow, hourglass-shaped body made of wood or lacquered bamboo, https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 14/25

15. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com and are covered with animal skin on both sides. The ropes that run along the sides of the drum are used to adjust the pitch and tone of the drum, and are often tied in intricate patterns. The Tsuzumi is most commonly associated with the classical Japanese dance-drama known as Noh, where it is played alongside other instruments such as the flute and the shamisen. In Noh, the Tsuzumi is used to create a range of sounds that reflect the emotions and actions of the characters in the drama. 1.12. Shinobue (篠笛) Shinobue is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute that has been used for centuries in various forms of Japanese music, including folk, classical, and contemporary. It is a simple yet versatile instrument that produces a beautiful, delicate sound that is both soothing and captivating. Shinobue is traditional Japanese musical instruments. Source: Internet The Shinobue comes in different sizes and is often used in ensembles with other traditional Japanese instruments such as the shamisen, koto, https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 15/25

16. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com and taiko drums. It is made from high-quality bamboo that is carefully selected and dried to produce the desired tone and resonance. One of the most distinctive features of the Shinobue is its unique fingering system, which allows for a wide range of notes and expressions. Players use a combination of holes and half-holes to produce different pitches, and can also use techniques such as bending and vibrato to add character and emotion to their playing. The Shinobue is most commonly associated with Japanese festivals and celebrations, where it is played by groups of musicians known as “hayashi” who perform lively and upbeat music to accompany dance and other festivities. It is also used in other forms of traditional Japanese music, such as “minyo” (folk music) and “hogo” (ritual music). 1.13. Sho (笙) Sho is a unique traditional Japanese instrument that has been used for centuries in various forms of Japanese music, including classical, folk, and contemporary. It is a wind instrument that produces a rich and complex sound that is both haunting and beautiful. The shō is a Japanese wind instrument. Source: Internet https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 16/25

17. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com The Sho is made up of 17 bamboo pipes that are bound together with a metal frame. Each pipe has a reed that vibrates when air is blown into it, producing a distinct note. The player uses a combination of breath control and finger movements to produce different notes and harmonies, creating a rich and intricate sound that is unlike any other instrument. One of the unique features of the Sho is its ability to produce a wide range of sounds, including both harmonies and dissonant tones. This allows the player to create complex and layered music that is both meditative and emotional. The Sho is most commonly used in traditional Japanese court music, known as “gagaku”, which dates back over 1,000 years. It is also used in other forms of traditional Japanese music, such as “minyo” (folk music) and “hogo” (ritual music). 1.14. Mokugyo (木魚) Mokugyo is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that is commonly used in Buddhist ceremonies and meditation practices. It is a simple instrument made from a hollowed-out piece of wood, typically shaped like a fish, with a flat bottom and a carved-out mouth. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 17/25

18. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Mokugyo is a Japanese wooden percussion instrument. Source: Internet The player strikes the Mokugyo with a wooden stick to produce a deep, resonant sound that is believed to help focus the mind during meditation and spiritual practices. The sound is said to represent the voice of the Buddha, and the steady beat of the instrument helps to create a sense of calm and tranquility. The Mokugyo is also used in various Japanese theatrical performances, including kabuki and noh plays, to create a dramatic and powerful effect. In these performances, the Mokugyo is often played alongside other traditional Japanese instruments, such as the shamisen and taiko drums. 1.15. Horagai (法螺貝) Horagai, also known as the Japanese conch shell trumpet, is a traditional wind instrument that has been used in Japan for centuries. It is made from the shell of the Charonia tritonis, a large sea snail that is commonly found in the waters around Japan. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 18/25

19. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Large Trumpet shell Horagai is a Japanese Traditional Instruments. Source: Internet In ancient times, Horagai was used as a communication tool by Japanese warriors to signal their troops during battle. Today, it is primarily used in traditional Japanese music and in religious ceremonies, particularly in Buddhism and Shintoism. The sound of the Horagai is deep and resonant, and its unique shape allows for a wide range of tones and pitches. It is played by blowing into the small end of the shell while covering and uncovering the larger opening with the hand. 1.16. Hichiriki (篳篥) Hichiriki is a traditional Japanese wind instrument that is made of bamboo and is similar in appearance to a small oboe. Its name comes from the combination of the two characters “hi” and “chiriki” which mean “small” and “bamboo flute” respectively. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 19/25

20. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com The hichiriki is a double reed Japanese instrument. Source: Internet The hichiriki has a unique sound that is both haunting and beautiful. Its sound is often described as being nasal or reedy, and it is typically used in traditional Japanese music to create a sense of solemnity or melancholy. In traditional Japanese music, the hichiriki is often played in ensembles with other traditional instruments, such as the shakuhachi and the taiko drum. It is commonly used in various forms of Japanese classical music, including gagaku, which is a form of ancient court music that has been played in Japan for over a thousand years. 1.17. Hyoshigi (拍子木) Hyoshigi is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that is made up of two wooden sticks that are struck together to create a sharp clapping sound. The sticks are usually made from hardwood and are held together with a small piece of string or cord. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 20/25

21. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com The hyōshigi is a simple Japanese musical instrument. Source: Internet The sound produced by hyoshigi is often used in traditional Japanese music and performances to create a sense of rhythm and timing. It is particularly popular in Japanese theater and is often used to signal the start or end of a performance or to mark the beginning of a new scene. In addition to its use in traditional Japanese music and performances, hyoshigi is also used in various modern settings, such as in school music classes or as part of contemporary musical performances. Despite its simple construction and function, hyoshigi is an important instrument in Japanese culture and has been used for centuries in a variety of different contexts. Its unique sound and versatility have made it a beloved and enduring part of Japan’s rich musical heritage. 1.18. Kagura Suzu (神楽鈴) Kagura Suzu is a type of bell commonly used in Japanese Shinto ceremonies and rituals. It is also known as the “sacred bell” or “Kagura bell” and is an important part of traditional Japanese music. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 21/25

22. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Kagura suzu are a set of twelve bells used in Japanese Kagura dance. Source: Internet The bell is usually made of bronze or brass and is designed to produce a clear and crisp sound. It is often decorated with intricate patterns and symbols that represent various aspects of Japanese culture and mythology. In Shintoism, the Kagura Suzu is believed to have spiritual significance and is used to purify the air and create a sacred atmosphere. It is often rung during ceremonies and festivals to call upon the gods and to signal the beginning and end of rituals. 1.19. Gottan (ごったん) Gottan, also known as the hako shamisen or ita shamisen, is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that originated in the Okinawan Islands. It is also known as the “kucho” or “kuchoki” and is similar in appearance to a small wooden box or crate. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 22/25

23. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Gottan is a traditional Japanese string instrument. Source: Internet The Gottan is made from a rectangular wooden frame with thin slats of wood or bamboo on the top, bottom, and sides. The slats are loosely attached to the frame, allowing them to vibrate and produce a unique and distinct sound when struck. The instrument is played by holding it horizontally and striking it with the palms of the hands or fingers. The sound produced by the Gottan is often described as a mixture of a drum and a woodblock. 1.20. Nohkan (能管) Nohkan, also known as the noh flute, is a traditional Japanese bamboo flute used in Noh theatre performances. It is a key instrument in Noh music, which is an essential part of the Noh theatrical tradition. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 23/25

24. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com Nohkan is a Japanese transverse bamboo flute. Source: Internet The Nohkan is made from a single piece of bamboo or wooden and has four finger holes and one thumb hole. It is a transverse flute, which means that the player holds the instrument horizontally and blows across the top of the instrument’s opening. The Nohkan has a unique sound that is both haunting and beautiful. It is used to create a variety of sounds and effects in Noh music, such as expressing the emotions of the characters or setting the mood of the scene. Conclusion In conclusion, the traditional Japanese instruments featured in this guide represent a rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations. These instruments come in the form of string, percussion, and wind instruments and are integral to various traditional Japanese musical genres. From the haunting melodies of the shakuhachi to the intricate plucking of the koto and the thundering beats of the taiko, each instrument has its unique sound and style. https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 24/25

25. 15:13 15/05/2023 Top 20 Traditional Japanese Instruments You Should Know (2023 Guide) - topbestglobal.com By learning about these instruments, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship involved in their creation, as well as the cultural significance they hold in Japan. Whether you’re a musician, a music enthusiast, or simply curious about Japanese culture, these traditional instruments are definitely worth exploring. 5/5 - (2 votes)  Tags drum instrument japanese musical  Edit Post https://topbestglobal.com/traditional-japanese-instruments 25/25