sanshin

thumb|upright=0.6|A sanshin The is a Ryukyuan musical instrument and precursor of Japanese (). Often likened to a banjo, it consists of a snakeskin-covered body, neck and three strings.

==Origins== The sanshin is believed to have originated from the Chinese instrument known as the sanxian, which was introduced to Okinawa through trade in the 15th century. Over time, the sanshin underwent unique modifications and developments in Okinawa and the Amami Islands, evolving into a distinct instrument. In the 16th century, the sanshin reached Japan, specifically the trading port of Sakai in Osaka. The sanshin was transformed into the shamisen in Japan, which spread throughout the country. As it reached various regions, the shamisen continued to be altered, resulting in variations such as the Tsugaru shamisen and Yanagawa shamisen. Among these, the gottan from Kyushu, retained many characteristics of the sanshin, distinguishing it from other derivatives such as the shamisen.