Since ancient times taiko have been instruments of communication with the deities. They provided inspiration as lively accompaniment to performing arts and continue to play a vital role in strengthening community ties. Wachidaiko are rooted in a legend of dispelling demons. In August drums welcome ancestral spirits on their annual visit. One family upholds 200-year-old drum-making techniques. A school instills seniors with purpose and energy. Discover the taiko culture of the ancient capital.

Expressing the infinite expanse through kanji characters brushed in shades of ink. Lying among the characters on the canvas, creating humanized works. Designing calligraphy to exude personality and authority. Embedding characters with a message for the coronavirus-plagued era. Discover the calligraphic world of Kyoto through the calligraphers who find freedom in wielding their brushes, while keeping a solid footing in tradition.

Tokonoma are a unique feature of tatami rooms, originally found in affluent households. Through the centuries, they slowly became standard fixtures for all social classes, including commoners. These alcoves were places of prayer for Buddhist monks, symbols of power for samurai, and condensed expressions of hospitality and beauty in the world of tea. Discover how Tokonoma function in worship, and as places of welcome and spaces to admire artistic objects.