Japanese Traditional Instruments: Words for Traditional Japanese Music

Traditional Japanese music is rich with a variety of unique instruments that contribute to its distinct and captivating sound. Here are some words for traditional Japanese instruments commonly used in Japanese music:

1. 箏 (Koto) – Koto

   A traditional Japanese stringed instrument with 13 strings, plucked with picks called “tsume.

2. 尺八 (Shakuhachi) – Shakuhachi

   A traditional Japanese bamboo flute with five finger holes and a mouthpiece.

3. 三味線 (Shamisen) – Shamisen

   A three-stringed lute-like instrument with a long neck, played with a plectrum called a “bachi.”

4. 和太鼓 (Wadaiko) – Wadaiko

   Japanese traditional drums, which come in various sizes and are played with sticks called “bachi.

5. 木魚 (Mokugyo) – Mokugyo

   A wooden fish-shaped percussion instrument used in Buddhist rituals.

6. 鼓 (Tsuzumi) – Tsuzumi

   A traditional hand drum with an hourglass shape, often used in Noh and Kabuki performances.

7. 笛 (Fue) – Fue

   A general term for various Japanese flutes made of bamboo or wood.

8. 太鼓 (Taiko) – Taiko

   A generic term for various types of drums used in Japanese music and festivals.

9. 篠笛 (Shinobue) – Shinobue

   A small transverse flute often used in folk music and festivals.

10. 和楽器 (Wagakki) – Japanese traditional musical instruments

    The collective term for traditional Japanese musical instruments.

11. 浄瑠璃 (Jōruri) – Jōruri

    A form of traditional Japanese narrative music, often accompanied by the shamisen.

12. 能楽 (Nōgaku) – Noh and Kyogen

    Traditional Japanese performing arts combining Noh (drama) and Kyogen (comic theater).

13. 狂言 (Kyōgen) – Kyogen

    A form of traditional comic theater performed during Noh plays.

14. 四弦琴 (Shigenkin) – Shigenkin

    A type of zither with four strings.

15. 扇子 (Sensu) – Sensu

    A folding fan used as a prop in traditional Japanese dance and theater.

16. 鈴 (Suzu) – Suzu

    A small bell often used in traditional Japanese music and dance.

17. 能管 (Nōkan) – Nōkan

    A bamboo flute used in Noh performances.

18. 神楽鈴 (Kagura suzu) – Kagura bell

    A bell used in Kagura, a traditional Shinto music and dance performance.

19. 篳篥 (Hichiriki) – Hichiriki

    A double-reed wind instrument often used in traditional gagaku court music.

20. 胡弓 (Kokyū) – Kokyū

    A traditional Japanese bowed string instrument with a unique sound.

By familiarizing yourself with these traditional instruments, you can deepen your appreciation for the diverse and enchanting world of Japanese music and cultural heritage. These instruments play a crucial role in various traditional performances and have been passed down through generations, preserving Japan’s rich musical traditions.

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Krisada Hemsoe

I'm Krisada, the creator of JLPT TUTOR. I created this site to share the path of my Japanese learning That I achieved my JLPT N1. You may struggle with Kanji , Grammar , Listening, reading and fail again and again. I know how you feel when you see "Not Pass" I want to share what I learnt in this past through this website. Hope you enjoy

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