What is taiko?

Taiko or Japanese drumming, also known as Wadaiko, started in ancient Japan as a means of communication within villages, and also during ceremonies to help bring about a good harvest. It was also used during wartime, as the sound carried well over long distances.

The Rolling Thunder website has an excellent in-depth introduction to the background of taiko drumming. You can find it here:

http://www.taiko.com/taiko_resource/history.html