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Which instruments accompany mi-kagura ceremonies at the imperial palace?
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Japanese music
Courtesan playing a samisen, Japanese woodcut print.
In mi-kagura ceremonies, which are rituals performed exclusively within the imperial palace grounds, male choruses singing in unison are accompanied by the following instruments:
- Hichiriki: A double-reed instrument.1
- Kagura-bue: A type of flute.1
- Wagon: An ancient zither.1
- Shaku byōshi: A pair of long, thin clappers used for periodic rhythmic markings.1
Additionally, the suzu bell tree is found in all kagura events, including those held at the imperial palace.1