1. Yo or In: This is the pentatonic scale without semitones. It comprises the notes 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 in Western music notation. Yo is often associated with traditional Japanese folk songs and melodies.
2. In-Sen or Hirajoshi: This scale resembles the natural minor scale in Western music. It includes the notes 1, 2, 3♭, 5, 6♭. In-Sen is frequently used in various traditional Japanese melodies.
3. Ryo or Ritsu: Ryo is a pentatonic scale with an additional semitone. It consists of the notes 1, 2♭, 3, 5, 6. Ryo creates a melancholic and nostalgic mood, making it common in Japanese melancholic songs and ballads.
4. Iwato: Iwato is a pentatonic scale with the notes 1, 3♭, 4, 5, 7. It has a mystical or ethereal quality, used in religious or ceremonial music and traditional melodies.
5. Kumoijoshi or Kumoiji: This scale includes the notes 1, 2, 4, 5♭, 6. It is characterized by its distinctive interval between the third and fourth notes, creating a sense of tension and resolution in melodies.
6. Banshiki-cho or Yo-Sen: Banshiki-cho shares similarities with the harmonic minor scale in Western music. It consists of the notes 1, 2, 3, 5♭, 6♭, 7. This scale conveys a variety of emotions, from tranquility to melancholy.
7. Hyojo or Honchoshi: Hyojo scale corresponds to the major scale in Western music. It contains the notes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. While less common in traditional Japanese music, Hyojo is occasionally found in modern compositions.
8. Kokin or Kumoi-cho: Kokin scale is similar to the Dorian mode in Western music. It comprises the notes 1, 2, 3♭, 4, 5, 6, 7. This scale creates a serene and soothing atmosphere.
These are just a few examples of the scales used in Japanese music. The choice of scale depends on the genre, mood, and tradition associated with the musical composition.