• [BLOG] Capturing the Soul of the Koto: Recording Tips Using the AT4040

  2026年04月21日

  Introduction Are you still relying on your smartphone’s voice memo to record your Koto practice? While convenient, a phone cannot fully capture the shimmering highs of the strings or the deep, woody resonance of the instrument. To truly preserve the delicate nuances of a Koto performance, a high-quality microphone is essential. Today, I want to…続きを読む

• [BLOG] Koto x DAW: Integrating Traditional Instruments into Modern Production

  2026年04月09日

  Introduction When most people think of the “Koto,” they imagine a serene, traditional Japanese room. However, in today’s music scene—especially in Lo-fi Beats, Cinematic scores, and Electronica—the Koto’s unique overtones and elegant decay are becoming a “magic ingredient.” As a professional player and active DAW user, I want to share how I seamlessly integrate this…続きを読む

• [BLOG] Must-Know Koto Masterpieces: From Ancient Classics to Modern Rock Style

  2026年03月31日

  “I want to listen to Koto music, but where should I start?” “What kind of songs will I learn in a workshop?” If you’ve ever asked these questions, this guide is for you. As a professional player, I’ve curated a list ranging from the 400-year-old “soul of Japan” to the high-energy modern tracks of the…続きを読む

• [BLOG] Sawai Sōkyoku-in: Where Tradition Meets Innovation at the Forefront of Contemporary Koto Music

  2026年03月23日

  In the world of koto, there is a school that has continuously pursued innovation while preserving tradition. That is the “Sawai Sōkyoku-in” (Sawai Koto Academy). Our instructors at Kotoworkshop Hiroshima belong to the Sawai Sōkyoku-in and have directly studied its philosophy and techniques. Today, we introduce the history, philosophy, and appeal of the Sawai Sōkyoku-in,…続きを読む

• [BLOG] Koto Schools: A World of Tradition and Innovation

  2026年03月16日

  When you begin learning the koto, you’ll inevitably encounter the term “ryūha” (school or style). In Japanese traditional music, a school represents more than just a performance style—it embodies a unique world with its own history, philosophy, and musical approach. Today, we’ll introduce you to the major koto schools. What is a School (Ryūha)? A…続きを読む

• A Complete Guide to All Types of Koto and Their Characteristics

  2026年03月14日

  Did you know that the koto, a traditional Japanese musical instrument, actually comes in various types? Beyond the commonly seen 13-string koto, there are many different varieties based on the number of strings, size, and purpose. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to all types of koto and their distinctive features! 1. Thirteen-String Koto (Jūsan-gen)…続きを読む

• Let’s hear from our participant, Chelsea from Australia!

  2025年09月10日

  Let’s hear from our participant, Chelsea from Australia! Q : What do you think about the Koto Workshop? A : I had lots of fun, it was really good to stop walking around for a while and learn something new, and practice some traditional artwork around here. Q : Was the instruction clear and easy…続きを読む

• Learn how to pluck the koto strings!

  2025年08月25日

  Learn how to pluck the koto strings! To produce a clean sound on the koto, proper plucking technique is the key! Start by placing your thumb gently above one string (Start from string number 7). Rest the other fingers 2 or 3 strings below the thumb. Use the tsume to pluck. Begin with your thumb…続きを読む

• Learn how to put on Koto’s nails!

  2025年08月23日

  Learn how to put on Koto’s nails! First, prepare small surgical tape, and the nails (Tsume ). Start by wrapping a small piece of surgical tape around the base of your thumb. This protects your skin and helps hold the nail in place. Next, slide the tsume over your taped thumb with the nail part…続きを読む

• Did you know that Koto’s shape is inspired by a dragon?

  2025年08月20日

  Did you know that Koto’s shape is inspired by a dragon? The right end of the instrument represents the dragon’s head. Beside it is a long curve plate across the strings that symbolizes its horn. The part that extends outward, often decorated with ornaments, is called the tongue. The long wooden part of the instrument…続きを読む