ABOUT
About Wadaiko ZINKA
Formed in 2011 by the Kanazawa siblings, Wadaiko ZINKA performs across Japan and abroad from its base in Hokkaido, with a sibling rapport and a world of their own. Their playing is known for its steady, powerful strokes and energetic performance.
ZINKA belongs to the lineage of Hokkai Ideyu Taiko, formed to carry on the techniques of the late Itto Oba. The Kanazawa siblings now carry on the will of its leaders, the late Norifumi Kondo and the late Kunimatsu brothers, and are the sole successors of Hokkai Taiko-ryu, a distinctive drumming style born in Noboribetsu.
In April 2026 the group expanded its membership and began performing as an ensemble, opening a new chapter as it takes on the world.
MEMBER
Members
HISTORY
Lineage
- ROOTS
Hokkai Ideyu Taiko
Formed to carry on the techniques of the late Itto Oba, led by the late Norifumi Kondo and the late Kunimatsu brothers.
- 2011
Joined Hokkai Ideyu Taiko / ZINKA formed
The Kanazawa siblings joined Hokkai Ideyu Taiko and, the same year, founded Wadaiko ZINKA in Noboribetsu.
- 2012
Brazil
Performances in Brazil.
- 2013
First own concert
Wadaiko ZINKA hosted its own concert.
- 2016
National TV
Appeared on a nationwide TV broadcast in Japan.
- 2019
Italy / TAIKO NONNO founded
Performed at an Asian festival in Italy. Founded a taiko school to pass the culture on to children.
- 2022
Noboribetsu 50th anniversary
Featured in the commemorative book for the 50th anniversary of Noboribetsu City.
- 2023-24
European tours
100 performances across the 2023 and 2024 European tours.
- 2026
New lineup / 15th anniversary
Expanded membership and began performing as a group.
- 2027
UNITY TOUR 2027
World tour starting in Moscow and Saint Petersburg.
