Sanshin "Akauma" - A Masterpiece Crafted from Susudake Bamboo

A Red Uma (bridge) made from susudake (smoked bamboo).

Susudake is bamboo that has been smoked by the hearth, making it hard and dense, which allows it to transmit the vibrations of the taiko drum well. It is especially effective at softening the sound when used with artificial or reinforced skins. It is used by famous singers and is a masterpiece that every sanshin enthusiast knows.

Due to the high quality of the material and the intricate craftsmanship, it is much more expensive than a regular bamboo uma, but you will understand its value once you use it.
The underside is coated with red lacquer, hence the name Red Uma. The side is inscribed with the size and a single character (之) representing the maker's name. This is proof of authenticity.

This was purchased as a spare uma for my own sanshin at a shop in Okinawa (see photo). Although it has not been used, time has passed, so it is being offered at a lower price than when it was originally purchased.