The taiko is a traditional Japanese drum with a rich history dating back over 1,400 years. These drums come in various sizes, from small hand-held versions to massive barrel-like instruments that can measure up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) in diameter. Taiko are typically made from a single piece of wood, often keyaki (Japanese zelkova) or oak, hollowed out into a cylindrical shape. The drum heads, traditionally made from cowhide, are stretched tightly over both ends of the body and secured with tacks or ropes in intricate patterns.

Taiko drumming, known for its thunderous sound and dynamic performances, involves not just musical skill but also physical stamina and choreographed movements. Players use large bachi (wooden sticks) to strike the drum, producing a range of sounds from gentle taps to resounding booms. While historically used in religious ceremonies, folk festivals, and as a means of communication the villages, modern taiko has evolved into a vibrant performing art. Today, taiko ensembles showcase complex rhythms, synchronized movements, and intense energy, captivating audiences worldwide with their powerful and visually striking performances.

Iaido is the Japanese martial art of drawing and cutting with the sword in a single, fluid motion. The term comes from iai (“being present, in harmony”) and dō (“the way”), emphasizing not only technical skill but also mental composure and readiness. Practitioners typically use a blunt practice sword (iaitō) or a live blade (shinken) once advanced, and training focuses on precise, deliberate movements rather than sparring.

Iaido practice centers on solo forms called kata, each beginning and ending with the sword sheathed. These forms simulate encounters with one or more opponents and emphasize proper posture, awareness, timing, and smooth transitions between drawing, cutting, and re-sheathing. Because iaido is primarily a non-combative art, it develops mindfulness, discipline, and situational awareness as much as martial skill.

The roots of iaido trace back to the 16th century, when Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (1546–1621) systematized techniques of quick sword-drawing. Over time, many schools (ryūha) emerged, each with its own interpretations and kata. In the 20th century, the All Japan Kendo Federation established a standardized set of seitei gata to unify iaido practice and provide a common foundation across styles.

Today, iaido is practiced worldwide as both a martial and meditative discipline. While competitions exist—where judges assess form, precision, and spirit—it remains deeply rooted in personal refinement, embodying the principle of hei jō shin (a calm and balanced mind).

Kendo, meaning “the way of the sword,” is a modern Japanese martial art that evolved from traditional samurai swordsmanship (kenjutsu). Practitioners wear protective armor (bōgu), which includes a helmet (men), breastplate (dō), gloves (kote), and waist protector (tare), and they spar using bamboo swords called shinai. Training emphasizes both physical technique and mental discipline, reflecting the spirit of bushidō, the samurai code of conduct.

A typical kendo practice includes repetitive drills (kata and kihon), footwork training, and full-contact sparring (keiko). Strikes are delivered to specific target areas—head, wrist, torso, and throat—with precision and a spirited shout (kiai), accompanied by correct posture and timing. Success in kendo depends as much on mental focus and presence as on physical ability.

Kendo originated in the 18th and 19th centuries when protective equipment and shinai were introduced, allowing for realistic yet safe sparring. By the early 20th century, it was formalized as a discipline promoting character building, courtesy, and self-improvement rather than combat readiness. Today, kendo is practiced worldwide, with structured ranks (kyū and dan) and competitions organized by national and international federations.

At its heart, kendo is not only a martial practice but also a path of lifelong learning, discipline, and respect, embodying the Japanese principle of keiko—“to think of the old and learn anew.”

The koto, also known as kin, is a traditional Japanese board zither. It features 13 silk strings and movable bridges, with a body crafted from paulownia wood measuring approximately 190 cm (74 inches) in length. Traditionally, when the musician kneels or sits on the floor, the koto is elevated using two legs or a bridge-storage box. However, in contemporary concert settings, it’s often placed on a stand, allowing the performer to sit in a chair.

Musicians play the koto by plucking its strings with the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand, which are equipped with ivory plectrums called tsume. Since the 16th century, the left hand has been used to alter pitch or timbre by pressing or manipulating the strings to the left of the bridges. The instrument employs various pentatonic tunings, depending on the musical style being performed.

The koto was introduced to the Japanese court in the 8th century, where it was referred to as the gakusō. By the 16th century, schools teaching koto to the bourgeoisie were established. Two prominent schools—Ikuta (founded in the 17th century) and Yamada (established in the 18th century)—continue to operate today.

The koto repertoire primarily consists of solo pieces (danmono) and chamber music (sankyoku). In sankyoku performances, the koto player often sings while playing the instrument.