From Taiko Drums To J-Pop: Take A Musical Journey Through Japan
3 min read
Are you a fan of thunderous taiko drumming? Or do you prefer catchy synth beats of J-Pop? Japan’s music scene offers a sensory experience unlike any other. With deep roots in ritual and tradition, and a finger on the pulse of global trends, music-loving travelers will find no shortage of reasons to explore. From temple workshops to neon-lit live houses, here’s your guide to Japan’s rich audio landscape.
Music-themed itineraries
The best way to soak up Japan’s musical soul is through specialist tours that blend iconic destinations with immersive experiences. Imagine yourself attending a taiko drumming session in Kyoto, immediately followed by a visit to Kodō Village on Sado Island. Many Japan guided tours include expertly curated musical activities – from shamisen demos to pop culture explorations in Tokyo that together offer a uniquely seamless and authentic mix of the ancient and the modern.
Get in rhythm: Try your hand at taiko, shamisen and more
You can find numerous music workshops across Japan that will let you do more than just watch. Try your hand at the taiko drum near Kyoto’s serene temples, play a shamisen (traditional stringed instrument) or shinobue (flute), or take part in instrument-making sessions led by masters of the craft. Head over to the elegant Matsumoto Castle, which offers a striking backdrop for taiko performances and hands-on lessons in centuries-old craft and technique.
Japan’s live taiko scene
Music groups like Kodo have turned Sado Island into a pilgrimage site for rhythm junkies (especially during the annual Earth Celebration). Tokyo Dagekidan keeps things urban and explosive. Looking for crowd energy? Head to Tokushima’s Awa Odori Festival or the pulse-pounding Ishidori Matsuri. These gatherings aren’t just performances, but rich cultural events.
Tokyo’s soundtrack: J-Pop, live houses, and neon beats
Tokyo buzzes with sound. Don’t miss the sprawling sensory overload of Shibuya’s music district, where the energy pours from underground venues that combine tradition with remix, while Akihabara pulsates with anime soundtracks and idol meet-and-greets. Explore record shops, grab a ticket to a small-venue show, or take time to join an escorted tour like ‘Japan & J-Pop Express.’
From temple drums to pop bangers: Hear it all in Japan
In Japan, music isn’t background noise, but an invitation to experience the culture from the inside out. Whether you’re mesmerized by centuries-old rituals or thrilled by the newest J-Pop sensation, you’ll find a rhythm to follow.
::: RenownedForSound.com’s Editor and Founder –
Interviewing and reviewing the best in new music and globally recognized artists is his passion.
Over the years he has been lucky enough to review thousands of music releases and concerts and interview artists ranging from top selling superstars like 27-time Grammy Award winner Alison Krauss, Boyz II Men, Roxette, Cyndi Lauper, Lisa Loeb and iconic Eagles front man/songwriter, Glenn Frey through to more recent successes including Newton Faulkner, Janelle Monae and Caro Emerald.
Brendon manages and coordinates the amazing team of writers on RenownedForSound.com who are based in the UK, the U.S and Australia.
