Watazumi Doso

Who was Watazumi Doso?

Watazumi Doso Roshi was a master of the end-blown Japanese bamboo flute. He studied Rinzai Zen, attaining the title of roshi.

Born as Tanaka Masaru, he was also known as Tanaka Fumon, Iccho Fumon, Watazumi Fumon, and Watazumi Shuso. The spelling 'Wadatsumi' is considered to be more phonetically correct than 'Watazumi.'

Watazumi played unlaquered instruments that he referred to as hocchiku, in contrast with the modern shakuhachi, stressing that to truly understand nature and oneself, one had to use an instrument of the most raw and natural origin. From this grew what he called Watazumido.

In addition to hocchiku, Watazumi used the Jo stick for exercise, invigoration, and training.