The Japanese-style drums called Wadaiko have a history going back over 1,300 years. They have always been played at festivals, and at shrine and temple rituals, and have an essential role in traditional performing arts like Gagaku and Kabuki. These drums produce a characteristically strong reverberating sound thanks to a special way of carving their interior surface. Wadaiko drumming is a very popular hobby today, and regardless of your age it's easy to find a place to learn. The way the drummer puts their whole body and spirit into each strike makes both playing and watching Wadaiko so uniquely compelling.

VIDEO BY MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF JAPAN