Taiko means "drum" in Japanese although outside of Japan, the word is often used to refer to any of the various Japanese drums and to the relatively recent art-form of ensemble taiko drumming (kumi-daiko).

During the summer months, particularly at festivals and celebrations, Taiko performances offer viewers the opprotunity to experience a real modern feature of Japanese culture. Around Niseko, there are several groups and one that I have seen regularly palying is the Yotei Taiko Serve Association, Koryu. They also play during the winter at the bottom of the family run on a weekly basis and have a great energy whilst playing.