Japanese musical instruments represent an essential part of the Land of the Rising Sun’s musical tradition. Among the most popular are the koto, a type of 13-string zither, the shakuhachi, a bamboo flute, the taiko, a barrel-shaped drum, and the shamisen, a guitar-like instrument with a square resonating box and rounded corners. In addition to these, many other traditional instruments exist, with characteristics varying depending on the region of Japan considered. Each of them is associated with a particular style of Japanese music, such as Gagaku, the imperial court music, or Enka, a popular folk genre. Below, we delve into the characteristics and common uses of these instruments and many more.

The Koto

The koto is a traditional Japanese plucked string instrument. It consists of a long wooden board with 13 strings stretched across it. Originally, these strings were made of silk, but today they are typically made of a synthetic material similar to nylon called tetron. The koto is played while seated cross-legged, with the instrument placed horizontally on the knees. The strings are plucked with the fingers, using the nails to produce precise and distinct notes. It is one of Japan’s oldest instruments, with origins dating back over a thousand years. Playing the koto requires a technique very different from that of Western string instruments; musicians play scales and modes characteristic of Japanese music. Among the most renowned koto musicians are Yatsuhashi Kengyo and Michio Miyagi, who greatly contributed to popularizing this instrument on a large scale.

The Shakuhachi

The shakuhachi is a flute used in traditional music styles such as Suizen and Honkyoku. Originally, it was used by Zen Buddhist monks for spiritual purposes, as its mystical and meditative tone aids in concentration and reflection. The shakuhachi is made from a single piece of bamboo, is approximately one meter in length, and has five finger holes and a blowhole at the top. Its tone is low and deep, and it can be played in various ways using different techniques that allow for a wide range of sounds and melodies. The shakuhachi originated over a thousand years ago when Buddhist monks used it during their ceremonies. Over the centuries, its use has expanded to various traditional Japanese music styles. Today, it is still played on numerous occasions, from religious ceremonies to classical music performances. The shakuhachi has become a significant symbol of Japanese culture and an important part of the country’s musical history. Many musicians and enthusiasts are captivated by its unique sound and story, and today, shakuhachi schools exist worldwide where one can learn to play this instrument.

The Taiko

The taiko is a drum of varying sizes used on numerous occasions and in different musical genres such as Kumi-daiko and Ji-daiko. Originally, it was used in religious ceremonies and to rally troops during battles. Today, it has become an important and recognizable symbol of Japanese culture. The taiko is made from one or more pieces of linden or cherry wood and can vary in size, from small portable drums to massive drums requiring multiple players to perform. Taiko can be played in various ways using hands, sticks, or other beaters to strike the stretched drumhead.

The Shamisen

The shamisen is a string instrument commonly used in genres such as Nagauta and Tsugaru-Jamisen. It consists of a wooden body covered with a stretched skin that forms the resonating chamber. Attached to this structure is a neck where the strings are secured at the top using tuning pegs. The shamisen’s strings are traditionally made of silk and are plucked with a bamboo plectrum. The resonating skin was originally made from cat or dog hide, but synthetic skins are now more commonly used. The history of the shamisen dates back over 400 years when it was initially played by geishas to accompany their dances or entertain guests with music. Over time, the instrument found its way into other contexts, including religious ceremonies and traditional performances. The tone of the shamisen can vary depending on the playing technique and the material of the plectrum, producing either sweet and melodious or strong and engaging sounds. Modern musicians often incorporate the shamisen into a variety of musical contexts, blending its sound with other instruments to create new and exciting combinations of styles and tones.

The Biwa

The biwa is a type of short-necked lute imported from China during the eighth century. It became widely popular in Japan through the use of blind itinerant monks, who played it to accompany the telling of epic tales. The four silk strings are stretched over a body and neck carved from a single block of wood, enhancing the harmonic resonance. This seamless construction allows sound waves to propagate more evenly, producing a richer and more consistent tonal quality.

The Kakko

The kakko is a drum with two parallel vertical drumheads, separated by a wooden cylindrical body that acts as a resonator. The drumheads are held in place and tuned by a network of ropes stretched across both sides. Tightening these ropes raises the pitch of the sound. Played with sticks called “bachi,” the kakko is often mounted on a wooden stand that holds it steady and off the ground. It is used in both Taiko drumming and Gagaku performances. Interestingly, the kakko closely resembles the African talking drum, although the latter is smaller, lighter, and played under the arm.

Japanese Musical Instruments in Modern Adaptations

All the instruments discussed are deeply tied to Japan’s religious and ceremonial traditions. In this country with an ancient heritage and imperial dynasties spanning centuries, court musicians played a crucial role in both formal events and leisure activities. These musicians provided serene and relaxing accompaniments during meditation or lively and energetic rhythms for social gatherings. Depending on the occasion, ensembles featured specific instruments from the ones discussed.

Today, Japan boasts numerous soloists and bands experimenting with traditional instruments in modern contexts. One such example is the Wagakki Band, which blends contemporary pop and rock instruments with traditional Japanese instruments, as shown in the following video: