Description: The term Taishōgoto in English is typically "Taishogoto," "Taishokoto," "Taisho harp," or "Nagoya harp." It’s a Japanese stringed musical instrument that combines elements of a keyboard and a zither. Since we live in Nagoya, we’re happy to introduce the Nagoya harp. The uniqueness of this instrument is best understood by watching it being played in a video. Performance video (English): https://youtu.be/i-X6-Kox9_M?si=ccuOGcsHbb5mDvkA The model name is “Momiji” (もみじ, meaning “Japanese maple”). Unlike the more commonly seen soprano taishogoto, this is an alto taishogoto with a four-string configuration. It can be connected to an amplifier for enhanced sound and is also compatible with external guitar effects (sold separately), allowing for a variety of tonal modifications. The instrument has been tested with an amplifier, confirming proper sound output. The body is in very good condition with no noticeable scratches. It comes with a hard case and two picks. The hard case is generally in good shape. The four strings are free of rust and in playable condition. Brand Information: This Taishogoto is part of the Kindenryu system, promoted by the Japan Violin Research Institute Taishogoto National Promotion Association. Kindenryu is a well-established method for playing and teaching the Taishogoto in Japan, focusing on accessibility and musical expression. Kindenryu produces many electric Taishogoto models and has contributed significantly to their widespread use. While traditional Taishogoto existed only in soprano form, Kindenryu expanded the variety by introducing alto, tenor, and bass Taishogoto models. Size & Weight: Dimensions: 75 cm x 14 cm x 9 cm Weight: 1.7kg (without case), 3.6 kg (with case) Keywords for search: Taishogoto / Taisho harp / electric Taishogoto / Kotodenryu / Japanese instrument / traditional music / Japanese zither / music education / vintage instrument / amplifier compatible / hard case included Changing the strings is simple, and you can follow videos like the ones below to do it. Some people also use guitar strings. From what I can see, the mandolin strings appear to be similar in thickness, length, and shape to the strings of a Taishogoto. (However, please note that I am not a musical instrument expert.) How to replace strings (English): https://youtu.be/_7Czc-nPRL4?si=UI1VisMFCsBU750G Using guitar strings on a Taishogoto (English): https://youtu.be/CTbNK4Ukjjo?si=Vaa6QNqWVtplckFd Tuning method (English): https://youtu.be/-TWAg5kG67s?si=aE-xE-g8_hADkYsW Tuning method (Japanese, with subtitles): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ObYRmGx3NtY Basic functionality has been checked, but please note that I am not able to play the instrument, so detailed testing has not been performed. The condition is very good. For a Taishogoto of this age, it’s in excellent shape. There may be scratches and dirt due to its age. Please refer to the images. NOITICE The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.