By using "polyethylene terephthalate," a type of plastic, for the body of the sanshin, this sanshin is resistant to heat and rain, which are weaknesses of traditional sanshin made with genuine or artificial leather. (Made by Urumaya, an Okinawan sanshin shop) Because the surface 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 this surface. How about a sanshin with a design of Shuri Castle, which is undergoing reconstruction after a fire, applied to the front and back, and (for some reason) genuine snakeskin? When shipped, it will be sent 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.*