Bb
F
Bb
D
A
E
Bb
F
E
D
A
F
D
Bb
E
D
A
E
F
Bb
F
A
E
D
Bb
F
A
E
D
A
Bb
F
Bb
D
A
E
Bb
F
E
D
A
F
D
Bb
E
D
A
E
F
Bb
F
A
E
D
Bb
F
A
E
D
A
Bb
F
Bb
D
A
E
Bb
F
E
D Hirajoshi Scale notes: D E F A Bb. Formula: 1 2 b3 5 b6. Chords that fit it: Dm, Dsus2, D5.
Hirajoshi is a five-note Japanese scale: 1 2 b3 5 b6. Two half steps, 2 to b3 and 5 to b6, give it a plaintive sound that recalls the koto. It works like a minor pentatonic with a different color, so rock and metal players use it for an instant Japanese flavor.