Ikegami Temple Pilgrimage Taiko Drumming and Buddhist Chants

listing image 1
Show all photos
2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

This experience is designed for travelers who seek authentic cultural immersion beyond the standard Tokyo tourist trail. Every element is led by true professionals — a resident monk of Daibo Hongyoji Temple and a performer from Taiko Ensemble Amanojaku, one of Japan’s most acclaimed taiko groups.
Unlike Asakusa or Shinjuku, Ikegami is a quiet historic neighborhood where you walk alongside locals rather than tourists. This is the Tokyo that most visitors never find.
Under expert guidance, you will learn taiko drumming from scratch — stance, grip, and striking technique — building up to a full rhythmic sequence played together as a group. The sutra chanting session inside the ancient hall offers a rare moment of stillness and connection with a 700-year-old tradition. No religious belief is required.
Maximum 8 guests per session ensures every guest receives individual attention.

What's Included

Professional taiko drumming instruction by a performer from Taiko Ensemble Amanojaku

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

From Ikegami Station (Tokyu Ikegami Line), walk approximately 10 minutes toward Ikegami Honmonji Temple. Pass through the temple grounds and descend the Daibo-zaka slope on the west side of the main hall. The red gate of Daibo Hongyoji Temple will be on your right.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

Step off the tourist trail and into one of Tokyo’s most sacred and overlooked neighborhoods. In the heart of Ikegami — where the great Buddhist monk Nichiren drew his last breath in 1282 — you’ll experience three pillars of Japanese spiritual culture in a single morning.
Begin with a guided sutra chanting session inside the historic Daibo Hongyoji Temple, led by a resident monk. Feel the vibration of centuries-old chant fill the ancient hall. Then, under the instruction of a professional performer from Taiko Ensemble Amanojaku, learn to play the Japanese taiko drum — one of the most powerful and primal instruments on earth. Finally, walk with your guide to the magnificent Ikegami Honmonji Temple for a private pilgrimage unlike anything on a standard Tokyo itinerary.

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Tokyo TAMAYURA Experience

Tags

Historical Tours
Seasonal
Small Group

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}
Book Now