Seven-Tone Scale Rare Mon-dake 7-Hole Shinobue (Shinobue Flute) Made by Yujiro Koike, Master Flute Maker and Director of Shinonokai

This is a one-of-a-kind, non-sale item, a seven-hole shakuhachi (Gis 450Hz), made from a specially selected, exquisitely patterned bamboo, crafted for personal use. The bamboo used for this instrument, with its beautiful patterns, is so rare that you likely won't even find images of it through a search.

All shakuhachi offered are of professional quality, yet they are also very easy to play for beginners, making them ideal for improving your skills.

Below is an introduction to the craftsman and the flute.
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This is a posthumous work by the late Yujiro Koike, a shakuhachi craftsman who studied under Master Hyakunosuke Fukuhara and was later praised by the Living National Treasure Saemon Takayama, whom he served and who reportedly cherished his flutes. Several of his unfinished works were discovered in perfect condition, and the wish of those involved is that they reach the hands of someone who can appreciate the value of his technique and sound.

Using his unique techniques, it is possible to play not only the pentatonic scale with normal blowing but also the chromatic scale using meri and kari techniques, allowing for sessions with Western instruments. Furthermore, the meticulously calculated balance of the finger holes has resulted in an artistic masterpiece.

The shape of the finger holes significantly impacts ease of blowing, finger placement, and tone quality. Those familiar with Mr. Koike's flutes would reportedly visit frequently, unable to wait for their completion.

We will carefully select and list instruments that have been confirmed to be in beautiful condition, with excellent sound and appearance, and free from cracks. Therefore, due to the delicate nature of these items, we kindly ask for your understanding that returns cannot be accepted. All flutes use carefully selected, highest-quality bamboo.

While some details regarding his techniques are unknown as the craftsman has passed away, we have meticulously selected only those confirmed to be his work, noted as highest quality, and have verified their sound.

To share his beautiful sound with as many people as possible, we have decided to list these items on Mercari. We may be unaccustomed to some aspects of this platform, but we will respond with sincerity.

This is an opportunity for both those who know of his work and those who do not, to acquire an instrument with a beautiful tone, appearance, and above all, ease of play. While we have a small stock, these are posthumous works and are therefore limited in quantity. Please consider purchasing one while you have the chance.

During his lifetime, a special exhibition was held at the Numazu Imperial Villa, celebrating the birth of His Imperial Highness Prince Akishino, featuring Urayasu no Mai and Gagaku Performance and The World of Yujiro Koike's Shakuhachi. He also presented his shakuhachi performance.

It has been 13 years since his passing, and his website has been closed. If you have any questions, please leave a comment, and we will do our best to confirm and respond within our knowledge.