Core Kyoto

S09E13 Taiko Drums: The Pulsing Heartbeat of Life

Taiko drums have served as a bridge to the divine since ancient times, inspiring vibrant performances and fostering community connections. The Wachidaiko tradition is steeped in a legend about driving away evil spirits. Each August, these drums resonate to greet ancestral spirits during their yearly return. One family proudly preserves traditional drum-making methods that date back 200 years, while a local school energizes seniors by engaging them in this rich cultural practice. Explore the deep-rooted taiko heritage of the ancient capital.