In Japan, there are many Japanese musical instruments such as taiko, koto, and shamisen, and unique instruments have been created in different regions. For example, the sanshin or Tsugaru shamisen. In this article, we will introduce the sanshin.
The sanshin is a stringed instrument used primarily in Okinawa Prefecture. It is used in Kumiodori, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Site, as well as in Okinawan folk and pop music. The sanshin has a round body covered with snakeskin, and is played with a fingernail-shaped tool called a gikou, which is worn on the fingertips or held with the fingers. According to one theory, the sanshin has its roots in a musical instrument called the sangen, which was introduced from China during the time of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.
Such sanshin is characterized by its unique musical scale and warm tone. We Japanese can feel as if we are in Okinawa by listening to the sound of the sanshin.
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