Welcome to the Shakuhachi Flute.  This is a historical Japanese end-blown flute with fascinating history, information, and media.  Make a choice on this page to explore the Shakuhachi flute.

About the Shakuhachi

The shakuhachi is a Japanese end-blown flute, typically made of bamboo and having five drilled holes.  Its name derives from its traditional length, 1.8 shaku.  The instrument is typically crafted such that the player has access to a minor pentatonic scale simply by covering and uncovering the five holes.  Other notes can be played by a combination of embrochure and partially covering the holes.  More about the Shakuhachi

Shakuhachi Media

Watch shakuhachi videos 

Imported from China, the instrument resurfaced in a distinctly Japanese form sometime between the 15th and 17th centuries.  More history