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BATI-HOLIC
Taiko Drum Show in Kyoto
Japanese Drums, Shamisen & Rock Live in Gion
Experience an Unforgettable Taiko Drum Show in Kyoto
Looking for something unique to do in Kyoto at night?
Experience BATI-HOLIC, a Kyoto-based Taiko Drum Rock Band that combines the thunderous power of traditional Japanese drums, the distinctive sound of the shamisen, and the electrifying energy of rock music.
Performed live in the heart of Gion, Kyoto, BATI-HOLIC brings Japanese musical traditions into a bold, modern performance.
Feel the powerful rhythms up close, clap along to the music, and discover a different side of Japanese culture.
Whether you're exploring Kyoto's nightlife, searching for a Japanese cultural show, or looking for an unforgettable evening experience, BATI-HOLIC offers a unique night of live entertainment.
Why Experience BATI-HOLIC in Kyoto?
Powerful Japanese Taiko Drums
Feel the deep, thunderous rhythms of traditional Japanese taiko drums performed live, just steps away from the stage.
Traditional Shamisen Meets Rock
Discover the distinctive sound of the Japanese three-string shamisen fused with the driving energy of modern rock music.
An Up-Close Live Music Experience
Enjoy the intensity of BATI-HOLIC in an intimate live music venue in Kyoto's historic Gion district.
Feel the Energy of a Japanese Festival
Clap along to powerful rhythms and experience an atmosphere inspired by the excitement of Japanese festivals.
A Unique Night Out in Kyoto
Go beyond temples and sightseeing with an unforgettable evening of Japanese drums, shamisen, and rock music.
BATI-HOLIC Biography
BATI-HOLIC is a Taiko Drum Rock Band based in Kyoto, Japan, built around Japanese taiko drums and the Sangen Guitar, a unique three-stringed instrument derived from the shamisen.
The band draws inspiration from traditional folk performing arts from across Japan. Rather than simply combining traditional Japanese instruments with rock, BATI-HOLIC transforms the communal energy and spirit of Japanese matsuri into a contemporary live rock experience.
Led by Nakajima Hiroyuki (vocals, Sangen Guitar), the band delivers music and performances that are catchy and danceable, yet at times lyrical and evocative. Driven by the physical and sonic impact of taiko and an audience-engaging performance style, their shows invite people to clap, move and become part of the experience, creating a sense of collective excitement and unity that transcends language and cultural boundaries.
Having grown within Kyoto’s independent live-house culture, BATI-HOLIC has expanded its activities internationally, performing in 25 cities across Europe, East Asia and Southeast Asia, including France, Italy, the Netherlands, South Korea, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Cambodia.
In March 2025, the band toured Vietnam at the invitation of the Japan Foundation Center for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam. Their headline shows at the Youth Theatre in Hanoi and the Ben Thanh Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City both played to full houses. Both of their original albums also entered the Apple Music Rock Albums chart in Vietnam, reaching as high as No. 16.
In July 2026, the digital single “Welcome to the club GENROKU feat. TSUBASA HORI”, featuring former Kodo member Tsubasa Hori as a guest musician, entered the World Top Songs chart on the Japanese iTunes Store, peaking at No. 20.
From Kyoto, BATI-HOLIC continues to pursue a contemporary form of Japanese rock that brings together the power of taiko, the distinctive sound and style of the Sangen Guitar, and the energy of a rock band.
A rock band that turns the venue into a matsuri.
International Performance History
Cambodia | 2018
Phnom Penh
China | 2019
Beijing, Tonggu, Shanghai
France | 2016
Paris – Musée Guimet, Péniche Antipode
Netherlands | 2005
Warffum, Putten, Amsterdam
Hong Kong | 2015
Harbour City
Italy | 2015
Milan – Circolo Filologico Milanese, Social Music City
South Korea | 2006–2014
Seoul, Busan, Gwangju, Daegu, Jincheon, Gimhae, Daejeon, Jeju Island
Taiwan | 2007, 2011
Nanying, Kaohsiung, Miaoli
Vietnam | 2012–2015, 2025
Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Hanoi, Thanh Hoa
Frequently Asked Questions About Taiko Shows in Kyoto
Where can I watch a Japanese taiko drum show in Kyoto?
You can experience a live Japanese taiko drum performance by BATI-HOLIC at EN-LAB., a music venue in Kyoto's Gion district. The show combines powerful Japanese drums, traditional shamisen, and modern rock music.
What are some unique things to do in Kyoto at night?
Watching BATI-HOLIC live is a unique way to enjoy Kyoto at night. The performance brings together Japanese musical traditions and modern rock, offering an exciting alternative to typical sightseeing activities.
What is BATI-HOLIC?
BATI-HOLIC is a Kyoto-based Taiko Drum Rock Band that combines traditional Japanese instruments, including taiko drums and shamisen, with contemporary rock music.
Is BATI-HOLIC a traditional Japanese music show?
BATI-HOLIC incorporates traditional Japanese instruments and musical influences into an energetic modern rock performance. It is not a conventional traditional performing arts show.
Where is the BATI-HOLIC live show held?
BATI-HOLIC performs at EN-LAB., a live music venue on the fourth floor of Gion First Building in Kyoto's Gion district.
How can I book tickets for the BATI-HOLIC show?
You can check upcoming performance dates and book tickets through the official booking section on this page.
Book Your Taiko Drum Show in Kyoto
Experience the power of Japanese taiko drums, shamisen, and rock music live in the heart of Kyoto's Gion district.
Join BATI-HOLIC for an unforgettable evening of Japanese live entertainment at EN-LAB.
Check the upcoming show dates below and book your tickets to experience a different side of Kyoto at night.
●VENUE
EN-LAB. – Gion, Kyoto
●SHOW TIME
9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
●TICKET PRICE
¥4,500 per person
●UPCOMING SHOWS
November 9, 14, 16 & 30, 2026
More show dates for December 2026 and beyond will be announced soon!
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