At the Freedom Walk, April 2017 - Photo by Bruce Hollywood
On the back of the happi is the symbol for Nen, the first syllable in Nen Daiko's name. Nen Daiko was named by Ekoji's founding minister in 1994, Rev. Kenryu Tsuji.
"Nen" comes from the word "Nembutsu," a type of Buddhist recitation. The literal translation of the recitation is "I take refuge in Amida Buddha." It is a phrase that Buddhists use as a reminder that Amida Buddha's infinite wisdom and compassion is always with them and as a means of expressing gratitude to Amida Buddha. The first part, "Nem" or "Nen," has the connotations of meditating or contemplating on the Buddha's teachings. Nen Daiko's happi coats and obi were made by the Japanese taiko costume company, Dodon. They were first worn in Nen Daiko's 20th Anniversary concert in August 2014. |
Nen Daiko's uniform includes:
The white flower on the front of the Nen Daiko happi is a wisteria. This design of two wisteria blossoms in a circle with intertwining vines is the official crest of Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji Buddhist Temples. Nen Daiko is an affiliate group of Ekoji Buddhist Temple, which is a Jodo Shinshu temple. Wisteria are symbols of the transitory nature of life. In Jodo Shinshu tradition, the blossoms bloom with their heads hanging down, symbolizing humility. The color purple is associated with the wisteria flower. 
Photo by Kris Ikejiri, July 2017
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Photo by Bruce Guthrie, April 2017
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Nen Daiko members wear jika-tabi for footwear, which are ankle-high boots. They were traditionally worn by construction workers, and have a separate compartment for the big toe to allow a better grip on uneven surfaces. The jika-tabi have a rubber sole, allowing for some cushioned protection from the hard ground.
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The headband - or hachimaki - typically is worn to focus one’s energy, but it also can have a practical purpose like keeping the sweat from running down into our eyes when we play.
Nen Daiko members wear the hachimaki lower in the front then back. It forms a diagonal line sloping forward. |
Photo by Allison Eckardt, August 2017
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Photo by Bruce Guthrie, April 2016
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Nen Daiko's apprenticeship program typically goes from October to June. During this time, when an apprentice performs, she or he wears the Nen Daiko t-shirt. After passing three evaluations, the apprentice becomes a full performing member and can wear the full uniform.
You can purchase your own Nen Daiko t-shirt at our store! |
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Before 2014, the group had a variety of uniforms. The uniform that was most long-lasting was a traditional navy haragake (apron) and wrap pants with a white hachimaki.
A haragake was worn traditionally as work clothes in Japan. It has a pocket for tools on the front. |
Nen Daiko's uniform before 2014 - Photo is from 2009
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Header photo by Oscar Hernandez, April 2017 at Sakura Taiko Fest