tonkori

The tonkori is a traditional musical instrument originating from the Ainu people, the indigenous people of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido and surrounding areas. It is a plucked string instrument, often described as a type of zither or harp. The tonkori typically has five strings, though some historical examples may have had more or fewer. These strings are stretched over a long, often elaborately carved wooden body.

The construction of the tonkori varies, but it generally features a hollow wooden soundbox. The strings are usually made of silk or gut, and they are played by plucking with the fingers. The instrument is held horizontally, resting on the lap or on a stand. Its musical sound is often characterized as ethereal and melancholic, and it has been used to accompany Ainu epic poems (yukar) and songs.

Historically, the tonkori played a significant role in Ainu culture, serving as a central instrument in their musical traditions. While its use declined during periods of cultural suppression, there has been a resurgence of interest in the tonkori in recent decades, with Ainu musicians and cultural advocates working to preserve and promote the instrument and its music. Contemporary players continue to explore its potential, adapting it for modern musical contexts while respecting its traditional heritage.