Japanese Pentatonic Scales Hirajoshi

The Japanese pentatonic scales (Hirajoshi, Kumoi, In, Itawo) are 5-note scales that emphasize the half-step interval. While the “pentatonic major” emphasizes the consonant intervals such as the perfect fifth, the Japanese pentatonic scales emphasize the darkness of the half-step.

This scale calls for an approach that is a little bit different than other scales you may have learned. It was normally played by a solo instrument. Any accompaniment would likely have been a tonic drone note.

Japanese Pentatonic Scale 1

Also called the Sakura Scale for its use in the famous Japanese folk song.

Japanese Pentatonic Scale 2

Also called the Hirajoshi Scale.

Japanese Pentatonic Scale 3

Japanese Pentatonic Scale 4

Japanese Pentatonic Scale 5

Key Exercises

• Learn, memorize, and apply the scales.
• Improvise using the harmonic major, at first without any accompaniment.

Special Thanks

Special thanks to Kyo Shimizu for helping us clarify some information about these scales.