It was used originally to accompany Buddhist chant only. An account of this instrument was found in the literature of the Ming dynasty (1368-1644): "The muyu is carved from a block of wood and into the shape of a fish, then its interior is hollowed out. Sounds can be produced by striking.
Since the Qing dynasty (1645-1911) the instrument has appeared in folk instrumental ensembles. The muyu is mostly made of mulberry or Chinese toon wood. The larger type is primarily used in Buddhist temples, but recently appears in sets, varying in diameters and tone qualities. The set is mainly used for regular rhythms in the accompaniment.
