Shakuhachi Maker

しゃくはちせいぞうしょく

Industry & Occupation

Engineering & Manufacturing

Classification

Summary

Craftsman who makes shakuhachi, a bamboo vertical flute. Handles everything from material selection through processing to finishing adjustments consistently by hand.

Description

Shakuhachi makers perform traditional craftsmanship by hand, starting from selecting high-quality bamboo, drying treatment, length cutting, node adjustment, internal bore shaping, positioning and drilling of the blowing edge and sound holes, finishing coating and polishing, and sound adjustment. Requires years of experience-based acoustic knowledge and precise hand tool operation. Also engages in inheriting traditional techniques and quality improvement through application of modern acoustic theory.

Future Outlook

Demand as a traditional craft product is stable, but successor shortage is an issue. Expansion into overseas markets and introduction of experiential workshops are expected to expand demand.

Personality Traits

Curious and Inquisitive / Dexterous Hands Skilled in Fine Work / High Concentration

Work Style

Freelance / Self-Employed Sole Proprietor / Workshop Employment

Career Path

Apprentice Craftsman → Craftsman → Traditional Craftsman → Independent Business

Required Skills

Bamboo Processing Skills / Bore Processing / Hand Tool Operation / Sound Hole Drilling

Recommended Skills

Acoustics Knowledge / CAD Design / Customer Service and Sales Skills / Lacquer Painting Skills

Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)

Item Description
Attention to Detail & Accuracy Because fine processing and precision in sound hole positions directly affect sound quality.
Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition Continuous learning is necessary for acquiring traditional techniques and developing original methods.

Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)

Item Description
Numerical & Quantitative Analysis Because advanced mathematical analysis is not required.
Collaboration & Teamwork Because work is mainly individual, with little teamwork.

Related Qualifications

  • Traditional Craftsman

Aliases

  • Shakuhachi Craftsman

Related Jobs

  • Japanese Instrument Maker
  • Wooden Instrument Maker

Tags

Keywords