SEPTEMBER 2025

Japan’s distinctive music culture includes traditional Japanese instruments used in noh, kabuki, and other traditional performing arts, instruments specific to each region, and unique performance styles. Its genres range from traditional music played at the imperial court for more than 1,000 years to music combining Japanese instruments with instruments from around the world. In this issue of HIGHLIGHTING Japan, we feature an interview with HOSOKAWA Shuhei, a musicology researcher, exploring the history and characteristics of Japan’s unique music culture. We also introduce various aspects of Japanese musical instruments and music culture, including instruments used in traditional performing arts and festivals, regional traditional instruments, and a music ensemble that uses traditional Japanese instruments in their performances.