This is a musical instrument used in the Kokiriko dance. My husband and I made it about 10 years ago on a trip to Toyama Prefecture. We made it with guidance from the locals. The ends of the strings are a little frayed, but the main body is tightly secured. Hold one in each hand and move your right hand to make a "jya" sound. The bamboo sticks are percussion instruments, and hitting them together produces a light sound. If you're interested, please do!