The axatse ( /ˈɑː.hɑː.tʃeɪˌ/ or /ˈɑː.hɑː.tseɪˌ/) is a West African percussion instrument that is similar to a rattle. It is traditionally made from a dried gourd covered with a beaded net. The axatse comes from Ghana, Togo, and the Volta Region, where it is used by the Ewe people. It is closely related to the shekere, but the axatse is usually made from a smaller gourd. The axatse has a hole on the bottom of the gourd, while the shekere has a hole on the top, near the stem. These holes are used to remove seeds and water from the gourd. Removing the seeds helps the gourd produce a better sound and prevents it from rotting. The axatse is traditionally played by striking it between the hands and upper leg.