Nagado Daiko Keyaki (勁 Kei Series)

Nagado Daiko Keyaki (勁 Kei Series) is a traditional kurinuki taiko carved from a single piece of Japanese Keyaki (Zelkova). Designed for players and ensembles seeking an authentic solid-wood instrument, it combines a powerful voice, long resonance and the distinctive grain of natural Keyaki.

Traditional Keyaki Sound and Presence

Keyaki has long been valued for taiko making because its dense, durable structure supports a deep fundamental tone, clear attack and sustained resonance. As the drum is played over time, its voice gradually settles and develops greater depth and complexity.

• Single-piece kurinuki shell: Hollowed from one solid Keyaki log using traditional construction methods.
• Powerful acoustic response: A strong attack with rich resonance suited to solo, ensemble and stage performance.
• Natural individuality: Every shell has its own grain, color and weight variation.

Materials and Construction

• Body: Japanese Keyaki (Zelkova), hollowed-out solid shell
• Drumheads: Genuine cowhide
• Construction: Traditional single-piece kurinuki body
• Production time: Approximately 30–60 working days, subject to size and stock availability

Available Sizes

Select the diameter that best suits your playing style, performance setting and stand setup:

• 1.3 shaku: 39 cm diameter × 49 cm height
• 1.4 shaku: 42 cm diameter × 53 cm height
• 1.5 shaku: 45 cm diameter × 56 cm height
• 1.6 shaku: 48 cm diameter × 60 cm height
• 1.7 shaku: 51 cm diameter × 63 cm height
• 1.8 shaku: 54 cm diameter × 68 cm height
• 1.9 shaku: 57 cm diameter × 71 cm height
• 2.0 shaku: 60 cm diameter × 75 cm height

The product photographs show the 1.5-shaku model. Body proportions may vary slightly between sizes.

Natural Wood Grain and Finish

Because Keyaki is a natural material, grain pattern, color and weight vary from drum to drum. Lighting and screen settings may also affect how the finish appears in photographs. These variations are part of the character of a solid-wood taiko and make each instrument unique.

Custom colors may be available at additional cost. Add your request to the order notes and email a color reference so the JINLEI team can confirm feasibility before production.

Availability and Careful Drying

Kurinuki taiko shells require a long natural drying process, often taking three to five years before production. Inventory can therefore vary by size. If the selected size is temporarily unavailable, the JINLEI team will contact you with the available options and expected timing.