In the quiet northern town of Nakashibetsu, Hokkaido, a different kind of rhythm echoed through the air on Thursday — the thunderous, soul-stirring beats of taiko drums. And at the heart of this powerful performance? A group of about 50 curious and enthusiastic international students.
As part of a cultural studies class at a Japanese-language school in Nakashibetsu, students from countries like Nepal, Myanmar, Vietnam, and others were given a hands-on introduction to one of Japan’s most iconic musical traditions: taiko drumming. The event offered more than just sound — it was an unforgettable dive into the spirit, discipline, and joy of Japanese culture.
A Beat That Speaks Beyond Language
The event kicked off with a live performance by a local taiko group, whose pounding rhythms filled the room with energy. The piece, inspired by Hokkaido’s ocean and its fishing culture, reflected the local life and landscape. The crashing drumbeats mimicked the waves and cast nets, creating an emotional connection to the island’s heritage.
The international students — many of whom are new to Japan — watched with wide eyes, captivated by the performance’s intensity and precision. The room, at first quiet and observant, soon transformed into a dynamic training ground where students would find their own rhythm.
Picking Up the Sticks
After the performance, it was the students’ turn to step up. Guided by the taiko team, they were taught the basic stance — one leg forward, knees bent — and a core striking technique: lifting the drumsticks high and bringing them down with force and control, striking the center of the drum with intention.
Some students followed the beat, while others explored their own tempo, experimenting with the deep, echoing sound of the drums. Accompanied by traditional Japanese flutes, the room was alive with spontaneous sound and shared laughter.
A male student from Nepal admitted, “It was hard to get it right, but it was really fun!” His smile said it all — even the challenge was part of the excitement.
Another participant, a young woman from Myanmar, said she was nervous at first. “But it was so interesting. I’d love to try playing again,” she added, still holding her drumsticks tightly as if she didn’t want to let go just yet.
Culture Through Experience
This event was more than just music — it was cultural immersion. In Japan, taiko drumming isn’t just an art form. It’s a full-body experience that carries tradition, discipline, and emotion in every beat. By physically engaging in the activity, students felt a deeper connection to Japan than any textbook could offer.
In a time when borders and backgrounds can feel like barriers, this experience showed how art — especially something as visceral as drumming — can bridge gaps and build new communities. For these international students, it wasn’t just about learning Japanese; it was about feeling it.
FAQs
Q1: Why is taiko drumming important in Japanese culture?
A: Taiko drumming has been part of Japanese festivals, religious rituals, and community gatherings for centuries. Its thunderous sound symbolizes unity, strength, and celebration, often used to express natural forces like wind, fire, and ocean waves.
Q2: Do international students often participate in cultural events like this?
A: Yes. Many Japanese-language schools include cultural experiences — from tea ceremonies to calligraphy and traditional music — to help students gain a deeper, more practical understanding of life and values in Japan.
From tentative first beats to joyful rhythms, the students in Hokkaido didn’t just hear the music — they became part of it.
Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20250530_15/
