There are so many things to think about when trying to create a beautiful tone on the shinobue—embouchure, breath control, posture… it can feel overwhelming!
But over time, I’ve realized that it really comes down to three essential elements that must work together: the direction of your breath, the quality of your breath, and your fingering.
When these three come into alignment, the tone blooms naturally.
I created a simple visual to help you see how they work together (this is a revised version) —my hope is that this will bring clarity and encouragement as you continue your shinobue journey.
This week, let's focus on "Quality of the breath".
Quality of the breath
It’s simple—if the quality of your breath is poor, your tone will be too.
That may sound obvious, but understanding how to improve your breath quality is key to creating a warm, resonant shinobue sound.
Step 1: Learn Diaphragmatic Breathing
Diaphragmatic breathing (also called belly breathing) is the foundation of a beautiful tone. It engages your core muscles, helping you produce steady, controlled air.
Watch the video below to see what proper diaphragmatic breathing looks like:
As you practice, pay attention to your posture. Even perfect breathing won’t help if your posture is collapsed. Poor posture weakens your breath support and leads to a weak, airy sound.
Sometimes, in the effort to “breathe low,” people end up slouching like this:
Step 2: Use Your Core, Not Your Mouth
When you breathe using your core muscles, over time, you'll be able to play the shinobue without relying on force from your mouth.
Blowing from your mouth creates a windy, aggressive tone.
Instead, aim for slow, warm air. Imagine you’re warming your hands on a cold day with your breath—that’s the kind of air you want.
Step 3: Do the Bottle Exercise
A great way to practice is with an empty plastic bottle.
Shape your mouth as if you’re playing the shinobue.
Without moving your lips or blowing from your mouth, exhale using only your core muscles.
Your goal is to make the bottle vibrate or resonate with that slow, warm air.
At first, it may be difficult not to engage your mouth—but with practice, you'll build strength and control in your core, and your tone will become more beautiful than ever.
Breath is at the heart of every beautiful shinobue tone.
Don’t worry if it feels tricky at first—just focus on one small improvement at a time.
I hope these tips help you connect more deeply with your sound this week. Keep going—you’re doing beautifully. 🌿
Zenpo Temple in Yamagata prefecture
Protect Your Shinobue with Quality and Care — Without Overpaying
Other bags may seem cheaper at first glance— but after shipping, the price often jumps close to $60!
With Kamakura Blue, it’s simple and honest: $44, handcrafted in Japan, with FREE U.S. shipping. (International shipping is available for an additional $22.)
Each bag is lovingly sewn by my childhood friend, Yuri san, whom I went to school with in Kamakura.
She takes pride in her art and uses only the high quality authentic Japanese fabric.
It’s designed to protect your shinobue from scratches and cracking.
If your shinobue is your best friend, treat it like one. Wrap it in something worthy. 💙
This one is made with authentic Ro (a type of summer kimono) fabric
Princess Mononoke in a beautiful Japanese bamboo grove!
Princess Mononoke Theme Song is the very first song I ever performed live on the shinobue. That experience was the moment I realized just how much I love sharing this instrument with others.
I encourage you to learn this beautiful piece too! You can get a free sheet music at saitomusic.com/free
One of the Most Meaningful Videos I've Ever Shared
During my recent visit to Japan, I had the chance to play shinobue for my neighbor, Kamiya-san. He gave me my very first part-time job at his bakery when I was 15, and over the years, he’s felt like a second father to me—especially after I lost my own dad at 18.
Kamiya-san is also an accomplished shakuhachi player, holding a shihan license. So when he listened to my playing, smiled, and even hummed along—it meant the world to me.
I hope his smile warms your heart as much as it did mine.
I went on a beautiful hike in Kamakura with my cousin, and took this video by Doso shin (Gods of protection). If you haven't checked it out, it's a must!
It was very hot (in the 90's = 32 C) and humid in Japan and there were mosquitos in there, but I really wanted to share the beautiful serenity of Japanese bamboo grove with a sacred torii gate! Hope you'll enjoy it!
Are you interested in Japan? Imagine diving into their culture and learning to play a beautiful ancient musical instrument! Why not give the shinobue a try? This lovely Japanese bamboo flute is easier to learn than you might think. Many folks (even without any musical experience) are discovering the rich traditions of Japan through this amazing instrument. I invite you to check out my website, saitomusic.com, where you'll find a wealth of free information that used to be available only in Japanese. You can easily purchase a beginner shinobue there at an affordable price. Also, don’t miss my YouTube channel, “Miki Saito Shinobue Adventure,” where I share anime and video game covers and fun tutorials. And be sure to subscribe to my free newsletter to support you on your shinobue journey! I can’t wait to see you there!
