1.
Japanese drum; taiko drum
A traditional Japanese percussion instrument made from a wooden body with animal skin stretched over both ends. Used in festivals, shrine rituals, performing arts, and modern ensemble performances. Composed of 和 (Japanese) + 太鼓 (drum).
Usage
和太鼓 distinguishes Japanese drums from Western drums (ドラム). In casual speech, 太鼓 alone often refers to Japanese drums when the context is clear.
Common collocations
- 和太鼓を打つ / 叩く (to play/beat a taiko)
- 和太鼓の演奏 (taiko performance)
- 和太鼓グループ (taiko group/ensemble)
- 和太鼓体験 (taiko experience/workshop)
Cultural note
和太鼓 performance has evolved from traditional festival music into a modern performing art. Groups like 鼓童 have brought 和太鼓 to international audiences. Ensemble taiko (組太鼓) as a stage art form developed primarily in the postwar period.