What is the name of the Japanese instrument that is similar to the Indian Sitar?

It is played upright with a bow, as of a cello, or violin. It has only two or three strings? Not sure...

What is the name of the Japanese instrument that is similar to the Indian Sitar?
You may be thinking about a Chinese instrument called the erhu. It has two strings (usually tuned to A and D, an octave above the violin) and the bow is threaded in between the two strings. It is somewhat similar in shape to a sitar, but unlike the sitar which is always plucked, the erhu is always bowed.
Reply:If it's played with a bow, it's probably a kokyu. It has three strings and is played with a bow.
Reply:err i don't know about these having a bow being played with them, but they are the biwa and shamisen.
Reply:it's a kokyuu
Reply:Zither? I've seen different forms, shapes and sizes like guitars.


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