Concerts
We offer taiko performances for concerts, festivals, cultural exchange events, and international programs in Japan and abroad. Programs can be tailored to suit the venue, audience, and purpose of each event.
About BONTEN
BONTEN is a Japanese taiko ensemble founded by Masataka Kobayashi in 1999. The group began performing in Japan in 2001.
Beyond the traditional elements of taiko, BONTEN incorporates instruments such as the shinobue, shakuhachi, shamisen, koto, and synthesizer, creating a distinctive sound and artistic world of its own.
BONTEN actively collaborates with artists across a wide range of genres and disciplines, from J-pop and classical music to Kabuki, while also pursuing international performances and promoting cultural exchange. The group continues to perform around the world, including in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
International Activities
Since 2006, BONTEN has maintained an active international presence through performances, workshops, and cultural exchange, primarily in the United States, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
International Highlights
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2004
- Performance in Jamaica commemorating the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Jamaica
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2006
- Supported the establishment of Cornell University's taiko group, YAMATAI
- Continued collaboration through performances and workshops
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2010
- Performed at Expo 2010 Shanghai, China
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2015
- Performances in Taiwan
- Performed at the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
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2016
- Performed at Jakarta Ennichisai in Indonesia
- Supported the establishment of BENTEN in Indonesia
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2018
- Led workshops in San Francisco
- Performed at the Bali Arts Festival
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2019
- Served as an instructor at the East Coast Taiko Conference (ECTC)
- Concerts in Belgium
- Commemorative performance for the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Hungary
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20232024
- European Tours
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2025
- Performed at the Latvia National Day Celebration at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai
What We Offer
Educational Performances
We offer educational programs for schools and educational institutions that combine taiko performances, hands-on experiences, and an introduction to Japanese culture.
Workshops & Team Training
We offer workshops for participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players. We have extensive experience teaching taiko groups around the world. We also offer collaborative concerts and workshops designed to help taiko teams develop their skills.
Corporate Events
We offer taiko performances, interactive workshops, and team-building programs for corporate events, international conferences, receptions, and business functions.
Taiko Experiences in Japan
For anyone visiting Japan, we offer taiko workshops and hands-on experiences at our studios in Kawasaki, Shibuya, and Yokohama.
Our programs are designed for participants of all ages and experience levels, offering an accessible way to experience Japanese culture firsthand.