First of all, it is best to learn only one thing about guzheng and guqin, not to mention that the gestures of the two are completely different. One needs to lower the wrist and the other needs to raise the wrist, which can easily cause confusion. Can you imagine wearing fake nails with your nails on? What?
In terms of difficulty, people say that guzheng is easier than guqin, but that is a lie. hehe. I have never played the guzheng, but it is not difficult to play.
Actually, it’s pretty good for boys to play the zither. I think it’s tragic for boys to play the pipa. I am a woman and I am studying piano. There is no need to think so magically. In fact, which one to learn depends on two points. Firstly, which one do you like the sound of more? Secondly, whether Taoist to Qin or Buddhist to Zheng, you can consider your own cultural preferences.
The last thing I want to say is that if you listen to the recordings and make judgments about guqin and zither, it would be unfair to the guqin. Please be sure to go there to listen to the piano. This instrument is not suitable for large ensembles or recordings. It is suitable for two or three friends facing each other and playing it heartily.