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  1. Biwa - Wikipedia

    The biwa (Japanese: 琵琶) is a Japanese short-necked wooden lute traditionally used in narrative storytelling. The biwa is a plucked string instrument that first gained popularity in China before …

  2. Biwa | Japanese lute, fretted, plucked | Britannica

    biwa, Japanese short-necked lute, distinguished by its graceful, pear-shaped body. The biwa has a shallow, rounded back and silk strings (usually four or five) attached to slender lateral pegs.

  3. About Biwa - Japanese Traditional Music

    The biwa developed into five different types in its long history: Gaku, Heike, Mōsō, Satsuma, and Chikuzen. Each type has different and unique tones, techniques, and musical styles.

  4. The Biwa: Japan’s Ancient Lute Instrument | Tradition of Japan

    Nov 26, 2024 · The biwa is a traditional Japanese plucked string instrument that holds a significant place in the country’s cultural history. With a pear-shaped body and four to five strings, the biwa is often …

  5. Jen Shyu Explains the Japanese Biwa 琵琶 - YouTube

    Jen Shyu ‪@JenShyuMusic‬ demonstrates & explains the Japanese biwa 琵琶 used to play Samurai songs & more!

  6. Biwa - Stanford University

    The biwa ’s shallow body is a bouncing board that sharply projects its sound forward. Therefore the sound of the biwa is very strong at the attack but it has almost no resonance, and in that sense, its …

  7. Unlocking the Mysteries of the Biwa: Japan’s Unique Lute

    Jun 11, 2025 · The biwa is a traditional Japanese lute with a rich history and cultural significance. Characterized by its distinctive shape and unique sound, the biwa has been an integral part of …