HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Uto Rain-Making Giant Drum Experience
Get the rare chance to play a massive drum that is a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property in Kumamoto Prefecture
Uto City
Discover a one-of-a-kind cultural experience in Uto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, home to the Uto rain-making giant drums. At the Uto Giant Drum Archive, you can see and actually play all of the valuable giant drums on display.
This drumming tradition began when rice farming was central to local life and water was essential. During times of drought, people would beat these taiko drums at shrine festivals to pray for rain. Made by hollowing out zelkova trees over one meter in diameter and decorated with kiboshi (wooden ornaments), 26 of these magnificent drums are preserved.
Although the tradition was once discontinued, it was revived by local citizens, and in 2017 the drums were designated a National Important Tangible Folk Cultural Property.
During the experience, a knowledgeable guide will explain the history and cultural significance of the drums. You will have the rare opportunity to play these massive drums yourself, feeling the power and resonance as you strike a drum over one meter in diameter. As a special memory, you can also make your own original drumsticks to take home.
How to get there
From Hakata Station, take the Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto Station (about 40 minutes). From Kumamoto Station, take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to Uto Station (about 20 minutes). The venue is a 10-minute drive from the station.
406-2 Miyasho-machi, Uto-shi, Kumamoto-ken
