Ise Taiko Gathering: Glossary

Ise: Ise is a city in Mie Prefecture, Japan, and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in Japan due to housing the Ise Jingu shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, the most important Shinto deity. The shrines are located within Ise-Shima National Park and are surrounded by beautiful nature. Ise Jingu has been a pilgrimage destination for over 2,000 years. Learn more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ise_Shrine

Nihon Taiko Matsuri: An annual taiko festival (full name: Shinon Kansha Nihon Taiko Matsuri – drumming with spirit of gratitude for nature’s generosity) – one of three major taiko festivals in Japan: Narita, Matsumoto Castle, and Ise.

Ise Taiko Gathering: This is the name for our event that takes place the week preceding the Nihon Taiko Matsuri. This is the first Ise Taiko Gathering and we are hoping to use this event to bring Taiko players from all around the world to Ise and participate in the Nihon Taiko Matsuri.

Ise Taiko Week: This is the name we are using for the entire week that includes the Ise Taiko Gathering and the Nihon Taiko Matsuri.

Okage Yokocho: The 3.2-acre area designed to be a reconstruction of an Edo era village. The site was built with painstaking detail to recreate architecture from the period. It was built by the Isefuku company to pay homage to the history and legacy of the area. Since its completion, it has become a popular destination where visitors can experience delicious local foods, Japanese history and culture, traditional local customs and heartening kindness that Ise is famous for. Learn more: https://okageyokocho.com/main/en_okage/

Ise Jingu: Ise Jingu refers to the shrine complex dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. It is said to house the mirror that was used to lure Amaterasu from her cave which returned light to the world. The shrine is considered one of the most sacred Shinto sites and continues to serve important cultural and religious functions. Learn more: https://www.isejingu.or.jp/en/

Isefuku: The Isefuku company is responsible for the construction of Okage Yokocho and is the hosting organization for the Ise Taiko Gathering and organizer of Nihon Taiko Matsuri.

Akafuku: Established 300 years ago as a tea house in Ise to welcome visitors to the Ise Shrine, Akafuku creates a special red bean paste mochi that is a specialty of the region and an example of unique history, food and culture of the area. All participants are encouraged to try one of their sweets offerings. Learn more: https://www.akafuku.co.jp/en/