By using "polyethylene terephthalate," a type of plastic, for the body of the sanshin, this instrument is resistant to heat and rain, which are weaknesses of traditional sanshin made with genuine or artificial leather. (Made by Urumaya, a sanshin shop in Okinawa) Because the skin is stretched with strong pressure, the sanshin's tone has a good sustain, producing a clear, high-pitched sound. Furthermore, photos and illustrations can be applied to the surface. How about a sanshin with a hibiscus design on the front and a snake-skin design on the back, both very Okinawan? It will be shipped in a cardboard box. (Case not included) (Standard size, 80cm in length) *If you would like to hear the sound of the sanshin, please search YouTube for "Urumaya + Doremi de Sanshin" and listen to the video. Thank you for viewing.