Koto

Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument with a long, rectangular body and 13 strings stretched over movable bridges. Played by plucking the strings with finger picks, it produces a gentle, resonant sound often associated with Japanese music. The koto is versatile, used in classical, folk, and contemporary compositions, and its design allows for a range of expressive techniques like bending notes and sliding. Its history dates back centuries, making it an essential part of Japan’s musical and cultural heritage.