KOKUBU – The Drums of Japan

Breathtaking - Spiritual - Archaic - Athletic

Kokubu, one of the world's best-known taiko drumming groups, is going on a major tour of Germany again in 2027 due to its overwhelming success and is setting new accents with its current show "Infinity" after its acclaimed tours in recent years.

With thunderous rhythms, breathtaking precision, impressive synchronicity and pure energy, Kokubu transports the audience into the soul of Japan. The perfect fusion of centuries-old tradition and thrilling modern performance. Every beat is a tremor, every movement a sensation.

The exceptional artists on the mighty taiko drums are not only virtuosos on their instruments, but also masters of staging, creating a magical atmosphere with spectacular choreography and impressive lighting effects.
KOKUBU is one of the most famous taiko drum groups in the world. With their impressive performance, Kokubu provides deep insights into Japanese culture. Their trademark is the perfect symbiosis of traditional craftsmanship and modern entertainment, which delights audiences of all ages. In addition to shakuhachi master Chiaki Toyama, the ensemble also includes Masamitsu Takasaki, world champion on the three-stringed plucked instrument tsugaru-shamisen, and Karin Toyama - vocals and koto. The show is given a special quality by a fascinating new element - the expressive dancer.

KOKUBU presents an extraordinary artistic extension in the coming season.
A traditional Japanese sword dance that combines with modern Japanese expressive dance to create an intense, new stage aesthetic. This fusion of centuries-old samurai tradition and contemporary dance art meets the powerful energy of Japanese drumming - a combination that takes the audience on an impressive cultural journey.

"INFINITY" marks the beginning of a new era for KOKUBU - one that takes the audience on a fascinating journey into the depths of Japanese spirituality, rhythm and aesthetics. Powerful taiko drums that shake the ground, shimmering flute tones and an ensemble that performs with absolute precision and dedication make the new show an unforgettable experience for all the senses.

"Infinity" takes the audience on an exciting journey to the gods of Japan. The most powerful among them is Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess.

She is worshipped in the sacred Ise Shrine - and her light is considered the source of all life force. It is this divine glow that runs like an energetic current through the new "INFINITY" program. The stories of the gods - handed down in the "Kojiki", Japan's oldest mythological work - form the core of the show. The KOKUBU ensemble brings these myths to life with pulsating rhythms, hypnotic dances and masterful music.

Delicate bamboo flutes and meditative moments transport you to another world - only to be interrupted in the next moment by thunderous taiko drums, whose rhythm becomes the language of the gods."

"INFINITY" is more than just a concert - it's a celebration of life. Whether you are a connoisseur of Japanese culture or simply a lover of breathtaking live experiences: This show leaves no one untouched.

"I've never seen anything like it - it was like feeling the energy of the universe. Every beat went through my body and soul." (Voice of audience member from Cologne, Tour 2026) 

At the beginning of the new era, Kokubu and their long-standing partner MIRO LIVE are entering into a new cooperation with Seven.One Starwatch, the leading German media partner in the live entertainment sector. The subsidiary of the ProSieben Sat1 Group is supporting the existing team to further increase awareness of the taiko drum group and promote the show with a wide reach.