Mt. Fuji Taiko Festival

The Mt. Fuji Taiko Festival is a renowned event held at the Fujisan Juku no Mori Exchange Center, where participants compete to be crowned the best Taiko drummer in Japan. First held in 1986, the festival celebrated its 37th edition in 2024.

Taking place over two days in late July, the festival also hosts the National High School Taiko Koshien, a competition to determine the best high school Taiko group in Japan, an event that has been part of the festival since 2010.

The highlight of the festival is the Grand Taiko Championship, an event staple since the second edition. This competition gathers Taiko masters from across the country to showcase their drumming prowess. Participants perform on one of the world's largest Taiko drums, standing 3.77 meters tall. The sight and sound of these drummers striking the massive drum is nothing short of breathtaking, making this competition the festival's main attraction. The preliminary rounds take place on Saturday, with the finals on Sunday, where performers have 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes to present their original compositions. The judging focuses on the performers' mastery of technique, physicality, and emotional expression, ensuring a thrilling experience for all.

Located at the base of Mt. Fuji, the festival is a celebration of Japanese culture, with the Taiko's deep, resonant sound and the dedication of the drummers serving as a powerful reminder of Japan's rich traditions.