TAIKO-LAB - Learn To Play Japanese Drums And Exercise!

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TAIKO-LAB is a facility where you can learn to perform on Japanese traditional drums (wadaiko). Drummers of all levels are welcome to join and enjoy a powerful and energetic, hour-long drum lesson in Tokyo!

Written by

五月女菜穂

1988年東京生まれ・在住。慶應義塾大学文学部東洋史学科卒業後、2012年朝日新聞社に入社。新聞記者として新潟、青森、京都を転々とし、2016年11月からフリーで活動を始める。旅、演劇、本などが主な守備範囲のフリーライター、フリーランサー。

Play Japanese Drums at TAIKO-LAB

Wadaiko (Japanese drums) are traditional musical instruments. Most Japanese people are familiar with this instrument as it is used frequently at festivals.

This time, we joined a wadaiko drum lesson at TAIKO-LAB with Chan from Vietnam and Jasmine from America.

There are many TAIKO-LABs nation-wide, but we took part in a lesson held at the TAIKO-LAB in Tokyo's Aoyama area. The closest station to this branch is the Gaiemmae Station on the Tokyo Metro and is a four-minute walk.

What Is a Wadaiko?

A wadaiko is a Japanese drum that requires the use of wooden sticks called bachi. Wadaiko come in many forms and sizes, such as the Nagado-daiko like the one shown in the photo above, and others like the Shime-daiko where the drum is tied down with ropes and bolts.

The history of the wadaiko dates back to the ancient times when its loud sounds were used in battlefields to energize the warriors and also used as forms of communication. As time passed, the wadaiko became an accompaniment to festivities and lately, it is being used as an instrument for exclusive wadaiko performances.

The lesson we took park in has musical elements along with performance and sports factors as well.

Join the Wadaiko Lesson!

Chan on the front left, Jasmine on the far left.

After removing your shoes at the entrance, you will make way to the check-in counter. Lessons will need prior reservations. Tell them your name at the counter and the friendly staff will assist you.

There is a changing room separated by gender that can be used to change into clothes that are easy to move around in. The lesson will be held barefooted so, it will require you to remove your shoes and socks.

The studios at the TAIKO-LAB Aoyama branch are separated into three rooms consisting of the A studio (for 50 people), B studio (25 people), and C studio (for 25 people). The studios appeared to be very modern and stylish.

Prepare for your lesson by changing into a Japanese happi coat normally worn during festivals. You can select the happi of your choice and the staff will help you wear your coat and securely tie your obi-sash.

The lesson consists of detailed techniques where the staff will teach you how to properly hold the bachi and the correct posture when striking the wadaiko drum. It seems like Jasmine and Chan are still a little nervous here.

At first, they simply copied the instructor's moves due to the unique rhythmical pattern. A wadaiko performance requires a lot of strength and shouting while striking the drum. It appeared to look quite difficult at first, but as the lesson progressed, the two appeared to have gotten the hang of it and enjoyed themselves.

Combining the rhythms they learned, they managed to perform a two-and-a-half minute piece.

At the end of the lesson, the instructor did a magnificent performance using the massive oodaiko. It was a dynamic performance that made the ground shake. It was a memorable experience to be able to see it up close.

Chan said, "it was harder than I thought, but it was very fun." While Jasmine said, "It was great exercise. The instructor's performance was powerful and very cool."

Reserve a Class!

If you would like to take part in a class, you will need to make reservations in advance online. Lessons are held in Tokyo and Kyoto on a daily basis, so it is advised to check online for available dates.

You are more than welcome to join even if you don't understand Japanese or never played the drum before. One lesson is an hour and it is 6000 yen per person. Reservations can be made on their website.

Getting to TAIKO-LAB Aoyama Branch

The closest station is the Tokyo Metro Gaiemmae Station. Get out of the Jingu Baseball Stadium District Gate and get out of exit number three.

Continue down the large street called Aoyama Street and go past two traffic lights. Turn right and you will see a building where TAIKO-LAB is located on your right-hand side.

The studio is located on the basement first floor.

For a Memorable Experience During Your Stay in Japan!

Both Jasmine and Chan had a great time at the wadaiko lesson. Why not experience the fun yourself?

TAIKO-LAB Aoyama

3-1-30 Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0001

Written by

五月女菜穂

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