Hachijo Island is located 178 miles directly south of Tokyo. Unlike many folk taiko traditions based on religious rituals, Hachijo Daiko emphasizes community, expression, honesty, and thoughtfulness.
On Hachijo, taiko is part of everyday life. A taiko drum can often be found sitting in the corner of a local bar, for example, where farmers and fishermen celebrate music with family and friends.
Aikoukai - Lover's Association (google translate)
Hachijo Aikoukai - a club dedicated to studying, celebrating, and loving the art of taiko from Hachijo island.
$15/class for students have taken Hachijo Fundamentals in the past or have actually gone to Hachijo Island