Japanese traditional drummers, Wadaiko Hama, concluded their nationwide tour in Rwanda with a wrap-up performance at the residence of the Japanese envoy to Rwanda Isao Fukushima, in Nyarutarama, on August 18. The event also celebrated the 80th year anniversary of peace after World War II.
The group, renowned internationally for promoting peace and cultural exchange through the art of Wadaiko (Japanese drumming), staged performances across Kigali, Rwamagana District, Miyove in Rulindo District, and Kayonza District before their final showcase in Kigali.
Taiko performance consists of many components in technical rhythm, form, stick grip, clothing, and the particular instrumentation.
While at the event, they performed Wadaiko, a traditional way to greet guests and create a welcoming atmosphere, and several others that are used in celebration and enjoyment for the listeners especially in new year and more.
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Ambassador Fukushima described the visit as a symbol of strong ties existing between Rwanda and Japan, noting that cultural diplomacy has been a joint bar in strengthening people-to-people relations.
"We’ve had diplomatic relations with Rwanda just after the independence and in decades we&039;ve developed strong relationships particularly in sectors of economic development of this country,” he noted.
Fukushima said that the two countries share many things in common culturally and suggested that the way Japanese drums are played can be embraced by their Rwandan counterparts.
He said that Japan values its cooperation with Rwanda, and cultural exchanges such as this create bonds that go beyond politics and economics.
"It’s very important for the exchange and the promotions in Africa are very important,” he said.
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During the tour, Wadaiko Hama expressed appreciation for the warm welcome they received from Rwandans. Members of the group said they were impressed by the country’s hospitality and the energy of the audiences they performed for in different places.
"We have the same culture, particularly history. I felt a deep relationship and common style during the tour,” said Teeko Hasegama on behalf of the group.
"We did workshops with Rwandan drummers and when I bit the local one, I felt the same way I'm beating ours. This gave me a sense of connection because of the variety of characteristics. It was an exciting experience,” she added.
Hasegama said that she would consider teaching similar experiences to young people in Japan, something she feels could create more connections.
The group, rooted in the Edo spirit of Japan, has been at the forefront of taking taiko drumming to international platforms, collaborating with television productions, film crews, and dance companies. Their Rwanda tour was to entertain audiences and shed light on Wadaiko as one of Japan’s most cherished art forms.
Traditionally, Taiko drums were used in festivals, religious rituals, and even for practical purposes such as signaling. Centuries ago, their sound was believed to be the only earthly noise that could reach the "gods”. Today, it continues to carry spiritual importance while being used as diplomatic tools for cultural understanding.
The wrap-up event in Kigali also featured Japanese food and beverages, allowing guests to experience themselves further in Japanese tradition.