Which instrument is commonly associated with traditional Chinese music?

The Qin, also known as the guqin, is a seven-stringed zither that is deeply rooted in Chinese culture and is often associated with scholarly traditions, poetry, and philosophical thought. It has a history of over 3,000 years and is renowned for its quiet, meditative sound and significant historical importance in Chinese classical music. The Qin is traditionally played solo, allowing the performer to express individual artistry and emotion.

In contrast, the Koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, Gamelan refers to a traditional ensemble of Indonesian instruments typically including gongs and metallophones, and the Kora is a West African harp-lute. These instruments are not linked to the tradition of Chinese music, making the Qin the correct choice for this question about traditional Chinese instruments.