Taiko (太鼓 = fat drum) is considered to be one of the most original Japanese instruments. In their current form, they resemble Chinese and Korean drums and therefore probably came over to Japan from mainland Asia in the 5th or 6th century with other influences, such as Buddhism.

as the powerful sound is said to make people heard by the gods

The sounds of large drums have always had a place in temples and shrines, as the powerful sound is said to make people heard by the gods.

Anyone who has ever experienced the thundering of several drums at the same time will be able to understand this idea. The force of the taiko creates a very special feeling, as the sound stimulates two senses at once.

In addition to their importance in Shinto and Buddhism, the drums were also used by ordinary people as a means of signaling over long distances or as entertainment during hard work in the fields.

They were used in battles both to intimidate the enemy and to boost the morale of their own troops

Later, the samurai made targeted use of the invigorating effect of the large drums: They were used in battles both to intimidate the enemy and to boost the morale of their own troops.

During the Meiji Restoration of Japan, the alignment with the West, many old traditions were considered uncivilized and neglected. In schools, classical music from the West was taught instead of traditional Japanese music.

Since the 1970s, however, Japanese taiko music has been experiencing a renaissance and is becoming increasingly popular at home and abroad.

Drumming in a taiko group is very different from western drums or other percussion instruments. It is all about a sense of unity, energetic movements and body tension.

There are many local taiko groups in Tohoku. If you’re lucky, you can even try your hand at a simple rhythm yourself. If you are in Japan for a longer period of time, you can probably even become a member of a taiko group. Many of the groups are very open to anyone who is interested and are happy to share their enthusiasm.

A special highlight is the wild performance of the Namahage Taiko, in which the Namahage give a breathtaking performance, wildly stomping and jumping.