Gagaku has been handed down as the imperial court music from the Heian era (794 a.d.) This refined and important art is forging a new path in the modern world.

Of the taiko used in Gagaku, the dadaiko is the largest. It is suspended in a five color frame carved with clouds, this is surrounded by decorative flames. Because of this, dadaiko are also called Kaen (flame) taiko. Using a rope made from red, white, and black stands wisted together, the heads are attached similar to a tsuzumi and decorated with gold. Dadaiko are always used in pairs. The Saho (leftside) dadaiko has a read body, a mitsudomoe design on the heard, and is surmounted with a Sun ornament. The Uho (rightside) dadaiko has a green body, a futatsudomoe design on the head and is surmounted with a Moon ornament. The Saho has two dragons carved in the frame, while the Uho has two phoenix.

Used in the Gagaku ensemble

Used in Bagaku. When the staff is spun back and forth, heads on cords lightly strike the heards.

Used in Gagaku Saho dance duets. It is suspended from the neck by cord and is played while dancing.

This taiko is mainly used to lead the music in Gagaku's Kumagaku. Only one head is played.

The main instrument is Saho Gagaku. It is placed on a stand and both heads are