March 4

Today is 三線の日 (Sanshin Day), honoring the traditional stringed instrument of Okinawa.

The 三線 (Sanshin), which literally means "three strings," is the root of the 三味線 (Shamisen) - traditional Japanese three-stringed lute. In Okinawa, this instrument has not been merely a tool for music, but has been cherished as a "family treasure" passed down from generation to generation. There is a history of people entrusting their daily joys, sorrows, and prayers to the rustic tone played by these three strings.