Dive into the timeless beauty of Akatombo (Red Dragonfly), one of Japan’s most cherished songs, arranged for 3, 6, 7, and 8 hon choshi. This advanced arrangement features a key change that heightens the song’s emotional depth, and a freestyle ending that lets you explore the melody with expressive nuance and personal interpretation.

Designed for intermediate to experienced players, this arrangement captures the nostalgia of Akatombo, evoking the warmth of childhood memories and the serene beauty of late summer evenings. Playing this iconic piece on the shinobue is not just music—it’s a journey through the heart of Japan’s cultural soul.

Akatombo was composed by Kosaku Yamada in 1927.

Sheet music has Western notation for 3, 6, 7, and 8 hon choshis, and kanji finger numbers you can use to play this piece with any hon choshi.

Download my free kanji number cheat sheet  here !

​Here is a video of me playing this song (not exactly the same arrangement).

The sheet music does NOT contain piano or guitar parts, and the product does NOT come with any videos or audio tracks.

Feel free to email me if you have any questions!