Koto… Learn it, Love it

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Rich in tradition, culture, art and heritage, Japan has never ceases to amaze us. Each corner of this beautiful country has a tale to tell. Japanese people are most appreciative of their past and significantly treasures it for generations to come. Those things work like magnets for tourists all around the globe. Millions of travellers visit Japan each year equipped with itinerary and a bucket list of what-to-do’s.

Making memories that would last is one of the goals each traveler desire. What else can last than learning to play Japan’s traditional instrument? The best way to carve Japan in your heart is to experience the beauty of harmonizing yourself with the unique calming music of Koto.

Misawa Koto musician
Popularly known as the Japanese harp, this stringed instrument has a rich and interesting history. It was first introduced by the Chinese as the instrument, Guzheng in the 7th century. Guzheng, which originally has 7 strings was embraced as court music in Japan. Later on, the instrument was developed by Japanese increasing the 7 strings to the standard 13 strings and changed the instrument’s size to around 160 cm to 200 cm long and about 20 cm wide. Koto is made from Paulownia wood and the strings are made of silk and nylon which are tied over movable bridges. The bridges are used for tuning the instrument according to the player’s liking. Koto players are seated with the instrument in the front and wears traditional Japanese attire. From being a court music, Koto is also played accompanied by singers during the Heian period and as a solo instrument or used in Buddhist ritual chanting accompaniment for some period. As the instrument became popular, musicians from all over Japan shared their contributions on the instrument. One musician distinctively rose the Koto to its pedestal as a solo instrument. Soon after, traditional Japanese songs are composed using the instrument including the famous Rokudan no Shirabe.

With or without accompaniment and vocals, Koto depicts the intricate Japanese life. One pluck of its string brings you various tunes. Each tune symbolizes nature, tranquility, beauty and peace. Like the Sakura blossoms you can never take your eyes off the petals as it gushes from the sky and gently make its way to the ground. Once the Koto is played, all you can bear to do is dwell to its unique sound.

Music enthusiast or not, learning to play the Koto is a once in a lifetime experience. Getting to know a country’s culture and history makes you want to relive the memories you had in the place. For memories doesn’t just dwell in our thoughts but also in our hearts. Book a Koto teacher now and start a one day training or a month long one. It all depends on you, and how extreme you want to be as a Koto artist. There are two kinds of Koto lessons. One is the Ikuta style, where a Koto player uses a square-edged pick while the other kind is the Yamada style, where a Koto player uses a round-edged pick.

Playing the Japanese stringed musical instrument Koto in Berlin (33947845808)

Booking that perfect apartment should be smooth as silk…

Before this could happen, you must first book a flight to Japan and find that perfect accommodation for you. A place where you can relax and unwind after a long day of Koto training and sightseeing. Like the sound of Koto, booking a furnished apartment in Japan should be smooth as silk. Relinquish the drama of renting an apartment… switch and rent a furnished apartment with KaguAruoo.