Gigative · Experiences
Kumamoto Build Your Own Buddy Play Japan's Taiko Drums
About this experience
This is a special cultural program in Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, where you can experience the soul-shaking sound of Japan. The experience begins with you first crafting your own original bachi or drumsticks, which are considered your essential "partner" or aibo for playing the taiko. You will then use your custom-made bachi to play the "Uto Amagoi Taiko," a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property with a history stretching back to the Edo period. A professional guide provides cheerful and fun instruction, and by the end of the 90-minute session, all participants will be able to play the Amagoi Taiko. The bachi you create can be taken home as a memento of your trip.
What to expect
A Soulful Welcome Performance in 5 min You are instantly drawn into the world of taiko by a powerful "Mukae-daiko" or the Welcome Drum performance by professional drummers. Touching the History of Taiko in 10 min Standing before the 26 Amagoi Taiko drums housed in the museum, you will listen to an expert commentary on their history and characteristics, deepening your cultural understanding. Time to Be an Artisan in 30 min Following instructions, you will carve wood to create your own original bachi. Enjoy the scent and feel of the wood as you complete your one-of-a-kind partner. The Climax: Striking a Cultural Treasure in 35 min After a warm-up, it’s time for the main event. Grasping the bachi you made yourself, you will feel the deep bass and vibrations of the great drums resonate through your entire body.
What’s included
- Commentary on the history of the taiko drums
- Lesson fee for the Japanese drum session with a professional guide
- Material cost for the original drumstick-making activity
- Admission fee for the Daidaiko Syuzokan (Great Taiko Drum Museum)
- Experience fees
- Tourist attraction ticket
Not included
- Shuttle service
Tour & ticket options
Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.
Taiko experience
Meeting & pickup
- On the day of the event, please enter the Taiko Museum directly and inform the staff at the reception desk of your name.
End point
- On the day of the event, please enter the Taiko Museum directly and inform the staff at the reception desk of your name.
Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please participate in comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothing.
- During the drumstick-making experience, your clothes may get dirty from wood shavings. (A plastic apron will be provided).
- You will sweat during this experience, so please prepare something for hydration, a towel, and a change of clothes.
- Please be aware that we cannot store your valuables.
- Regarding the Meeting Point：Please use the "Uto City Daidaiko Syuzokan Parking Lot".
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.