Sizing Shakuhachi

Properly sizing shakuhachi can be daunting. In this guide I’ll teach you all about getting the right fit so that you can more confidently purchase shakuhachi. Of course, it’s ideal to play shakuhachi that best fit your body. With that said, you and many others may also wish or need to play shakuhachi that are on the larger side.

As a result, I’ve helped countless people with figuring out what sizes they can safely play. I’ve also taught just as many people how to properly play larger shakuhachi. I’m happy to share this information with you here so that you can hope to play comfortably and safely.

The photos below show all of the measurements I ask of people. With these measurements I can determine your ideal shakuhachi length, your safe maximum, and your absolute ergonomic limit (only recommended for advanced players and for shorter playing sessions).

All of the finger measurements should be done with a solid ruler laying flat on a table. Your hand and fingers should be pressed down lightly. Only one side of your body needs to be measured, that is, unless there are differences between one side of your body and the other.

While it may seem excessive, these measurements are key. Of course, when pushing our ergonomic limits we’ll naturally need time to adapt. Likewise, beginners often have to get used to holding any length of shakuhachi. Of course, you may also have some physical limitations, such as old injuries and so on, which need consideration. If that’s the case, I’m happy to discuss custom options. Feel free to contact me regarding these matters and happy playing, Josen