If you enjoy traditional Japanese music, you may be a fan of NHK World Blends, a fascinating program that helps introduce classical Japanese instruments and musical performers by playing popular modern songs on traditional Japanese instruments. One of the show's appeals is rediscovering an appreciation for songs by hearing gorgeous renditions of them accented by the gentle touch of shakuhachi (traditional Japanese bamboo flute), koto, and shamisen.

One such standout is a cover of "Back in Black" by rock giants AC/DC on traditional Japanese instruments, featuring the returning Yoshimi Tsujimoto, a talented veteran player of the shakuhachi. A notable addition to this performance is the shime-daiko, a taiko drum used in noh, kabuki, and festival performances.

If you're a fan of the awesome renditions on NHK World Blends, check out their awesome traditional Japanese instrumental covers of "Smooth Criminal" by Michael Jackson and "Welcome to the Jungle" by Guns N' Roses!