Taiko Drumming and Buddhist Chanting in a 700-Year Tokyo Temple

5.0
(6 reviews)
Tokyo, Japan

2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Step into a 700-year-old temple in Tokyo and experience a dynamic journey from quiet sutra chanting to powerful taiko drumming.

Start with sutra chanting at Daibo Hongyoji Temple, founded over 700 years ago. A monk will guide you step by step, making it easy to follow even for beginners. In the serene hall, as your voice joins the rhythm, you settle into stillness.

With a focused mind, move on to taiko drumming. A professional drummer with 23 years of experience, who has performed at national ceremonies and overseas concerts, will guide you from stance and grip to your first strike. As the group rhythm builds, you will feel a strong sense of achievement and pure joy, connecting with the powerful sounds, history, and spirit of Japanese culture. Tailored sessions, max 8 guests.

End with a relaxing walk through Ikegami Honmonji Temple, another site with 700 years of history. Away from the crowds, discover a warm local atmosphere and a side of Tokyo that most travelers never see.

What's Included

A pair of authentic Japanese zori (sandals) as a gift
Buddhist chanting experience in the historic hall
Live performance by a professional taiko drummer
Complimentary taiko drumstick rental
Complimentary happi coat rental
Our staff will make lunch reservations for you.
Guided visit to DaiboHongyoji Temple's sacred inner sanctum a rarely visited, deeply spiritual space
Japanese tea & seasonal wagashi service
Guided pilgrimage to Ikegami Honmonji Temple

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Approx 20 minutes by car from Shinagawa&Haneda 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 on your right.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What to expect

10:00 Meet at Daibo Hongyoji Temple

・Step 1 | Chanting & Japanese Garden
Chanting in a historic temple hall led by a monk from the basics. No religious background is needed. Afterward, spend a quiet moment in a peaceful Japanese garden with trees and stone paths, as time gently slows down.

・Step 2 | Taiko Drumming
A professional taiko drummer with 23 years of experience will guide you step-by-step. You will gradually become part of a powerful group rhythm, feeling a strong sense of achievement and energetic resonance of the drum through your body.

・Step 3 | Break
Relax with cold tea and traditional Japanese sweets. Connect with others and your instructor.

・Step 4 | Walk through Ikegami Honmonji Temple
Join a walk through Honmonji Temple in Ikegami, a quiet historic neighborhood. Learn basic visiting etiquette, including how to pray and perform hand purification.

Ends around 12:30
Each participant will receive a pair of traditional "zori" sandals and socks as a gift.

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.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 6 6 reviews
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