Kotobu - Japanese Koto

Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Japanese traditional music with Kotobu — the most authentic and comprehensive digital 13-string Koto (箏) simulator and interactive learning app. Whether you are a seasoned player looking to practice on the go, a traditional music student deciphering classical scores, or a beginner fascinated by Japanese culture, Kotobu brings the delicate resonance of the Koto right to your fingertips. ◆ AUTHENTIC SOUND & TECHNIQUES • High-Definition Sound: Every string is sampled from a master-grade acoustic Koto with rich, natural resonance. • Traditional Plucking (Tsume): Supports standard plucks, Sukuizume (back-plucks), Tremolo (トレモロ), Awasezume, and Uraren (裏連). • Authentic Left-Hand Bends (Oshi-zume): Master the expressive pitch bends fundamental to Koto performance — including Hanoshi (half-step bend) and Honoshi (whole-step bend) with dedicated string push controls. • Ikuta & Yamada Schools: Choose between Ikuta-ryu (生田流) and Yamada-ryu (山田流) playing angles and plectrum shapes. ◆ DUAL NOTATION SYSTEM • Traditional Vertical Score (Tatefu / 縦譜): Read authentic Japanese vertical string numbers just like genuine Koto sheet music. • Western Hybrid Score: Switch to horizontal Western notation with Do-Re-Mi / Solfège notes to help beginners and international musicians play right away. • Smart Scrolling: Notes scroll smoothly in rhythm, making practice intuitive and fun. ◆ CLASSICAL REPERTOIRE & TUNINGS • Traditional Tunings: Switch effortlessly between standard Hirajoshi (平調子), Kumoi-joshi (雲井調子), and Nogi-joshi (乃木調子). • Built-In Song Library: Learn beloved classics step-by-step, including: - Sakura Sakura (さくらさくら) - Rokudan no Shirabe (六段の調) - Hotaru Koi (ほたるこい) - And many more traditional melodies! • Practice & Scoring Modes: Practice at your own pace or challenge yourself in game mode to test your timing and technique accuracy. ◆ RICH FEATURES & TOOLS • Pitch Calibration & Tuner: Learn how each string relates to traditional Ji (bridges) and pitch frequencies. • Local Multiplayer Ensemble: Connect two devices over local wireless to perform duets or split right-hand / left-hand parts in real time. • Daily Omikuji Fortune: Draw traditional Japanese fortunes every day for extra rewards and daily inspiration. • Custom Song Import: Import your own arrangements to play and practice any song you love. Bring the soul of classical Japan wherever you go. Download Kotobu today and begin your Koto journey!