Daily Archives: September 3, 2023

The tale of the Shamisen and Animals: The intersection of legend and reality behind a musical instrument

The tale of the Shamisen and Animals: The intersection of legend and reality behind a musical instrument

The shamisen is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, appearing in many songs and stories. However, the reality that the skin of animals like dogs and cats is sometimes used in its construction also exists. In this article, we will examine the relationship between the shamisen and animal skin, focusing on customs from ancient to modern Japan. ◇Between Beauty and Sacrifice…

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Japanese musical instruments in Japan’s oldest novels

Japanese musical instruments in Japan’s oldest novels

The history of Japanese musical instruments is long, and descriptions of them can be found in many books. Japan’s oldest full-length novel, which has been translated into dozens of languages and is famous throughout the world, also contains descriptions of Japanese musical instruments. The work is called “The Tale of Genji”. It depicts the aristocratic society of the Heian period,…

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The scents of “Wa”: Exploring the unique aromas of Japan for fans of traditional Japanese instruments

The scents of “Wa”: Exploring the unique aromas of Japan for fans of traditional Japanese instruments

Japanese culture offers a rich tapestry of experiences that engage all the senses, among which the sense of smell holds a unique place. For lovers of traditional Japanese musical instruments, or “wagakki,” these unique scents can add another layer of depth to their musical pursuits. In this blog post, let’s explore some of the distinctive aromas that define Japanese culture.…

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