The TOKARA Taiko Bootcamp in Japan in 2026 is planned during the beautiful Cherry Blossom season.

This course allows the taiko practicioner to fully immerse themselves in the world of taiko from the heart of Japan...Nagano Prefecture. This is a two-week intensive course which creates an opportunity for participants to experience what it is like to train in and see first-hand the vast abundance of taiko styles throughout Japan, from intensive training during the day to enjoying the rural and unique life of Japan every evening.

Course Content
The TOKARA Taiko Bootcamp is an intensive taiko training session during which participants will have the chance to be taught in the energetic performance style of TOKARA by Wadaiko Artist Art Lee and professional performance group members.  Participants will undergo intensive taiko study of all original drills and composition.  In the evenings, participants will be able to enjoy the festival-like atmosphere of Iida City and Achi Village. Participants may also be able to receive free tickets to TOKARA's Japan Tour Concert as well as joining in the Narita Taiko Festival, the world's largest taiko festival.

Following the course, participants may have the opportunity to take home an original piece written by Tokara. All drills and compositions are originally created by Wadaiko Artist Art Lee.

Accommodation
To better immerse oneself in rural life in Japan, accommodation is planned to be at the most well-known hotel in Iida called Silk Hotel.  Accomodation, In-hotel onsen (natural hot spring), and Breakfast are all included in the course fee.
***Please note that accommodation arrangement may change at any time, in which case we will notify you immediately***

Transportation
Unless travelling to other parts of Japan before the course, participants are advised to arrive at the nearest international airport which is Chubu International Airport (Centrair - Nagoya).  Detailed directions will be included in information packets to those whose applications are accepted to the TOKARA Wadaiko Bootcamp.

Details Summary
***This course is taught in English***
Dates:
     1. April 13 - 16: TOKARA BOOTCAMP ~ Week 1
     2. April 17: Travel to Narita City for Narita Taiko Festival
     3. April 18 and 19: Narita Taiko Festival
     4. April 20 - 24: TOKARA BOOTCAMP ~ Week 2

Course Fee:
     230,000yen - Full Two Weeks
     115,000yen - One Week (First week only)
     ***One Week course registration only available in January 2026***

     **A deposit is required within three days of application**

Course fee includes:
     1. Full Course Tuition. (for one or two week course)
     2. Accommodation with breakfast
     ***Friday and Saturday night accommodation in Narita City is not included***

     3. Participation in and/or tickets to TOKARA concert.
     4. Travel to Narita Taiko Festival. (Two Week Course participants only).
     5. Evening taiko practice (Narita Taiko Festival opening ceremony piece, etc.)

***Though not a prerequisite, it is recommended that applicants have intermediate to advanced taiko experience before applying to this course.

You should receive confirmation of receipt of your application within two days by email.