The taiko is a traditional Japanese percussion instrument that has been an integral part of rituals and ceremonies at shrines and temples since ancient times. Now, it has developed into a performing art form with many professional performers and a growing number of amateur groups in local communities enjoying it as a hobby. The appeal of taiko is the ease with which you can produce sound simply by beating the drum, but the sound varies from person to person. Experience the ensemble in simple rhythms and enjoy ‘Japanese drumming’. By making mini taiko key rings, you can also get to know the structure of the Japanese drum.

Yuichi Kimura

In 1995, while still in high school, the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake struck, and while he himself was affected by the disaster, he started playing taiko as a way of encouraging people in the affected areas. After graduation, he aspired to become a professional. He was involved in the founding of the Kobe-based group and has been a core member and stage director for 16 years. In 2011 he became independent and debuted as a taiko soloist.

Taiko Drum Band “Daichi no Kai”

“Daichi no Kai” is a taiko group produced by taiko player Yuichi Kimura, and has been active since 2011. It is also actively involved in promoting taiko through workshops and other activities, such as hands-on taiko learning for children. It also conducts overseas tours and other activities to introduce Japanese culture.

Workshop

Learn : The different types and history of Japanese drums.
Beat : Learn how to hold drumsticks and beat the Taiko, enjoy playing in ensembles in simple rhythms.
View : View a mini live performance.
Make : Make a small Japanese drum keyring.