PROFILE

WADAIKO ZINKA

In 2011, the Kanazawa siblings formed “Wadaiko ZINKA.” With their unique sibling harmony and unique worldview, they have expanded their activities first primarily in Hokkaido, then throughout Japan, and overseas. Their performances are characterized by their stable rhythms and energetic performances. Furthermore, “Hokkai Taiko” is designated a Folk Cultural Property of Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. After the disbandment of the group, “Hokkai Ideyu Taiko” was formed to carry on the techniques of the late “Itto Oba”, founder of Hokkai Taiko. Following the disbandment, the Kanazawa siblings continued the tradition, carrying on the legacy of their leader, the late “Norifumi Kondo”, and the late “Kunimatsu” brothers. In April 2026, they expanded their membership and began performing as a group. They are creating performances that fully utilize each member’s individuality and traditions, ushering in a new chapter of global expansion. Wadaiko ZINKA is based in Noboribetsu City, Hokkaido. They have performed in Japan and around the world with their unique style. Concerts have been given in Brazil, Australia, Indonesia, and many other places around the world. Wadaiko Zinka has appeared several times on national broadcast television and radio stations. The Asia Festival in Italy in 2019 was one of the highlights, as well as the 100 shows performed in Europe in 2023 and 2024, where the unique “Hokkai Taiko” style was introduced to the European audience for the very first time. In 2019, Kanazawa launched their own wadaiko school, teaching a total of 50 students and sharing the culture of wadaiko with children.

Masahiro Kanazawa

November 3, 1989   Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

 Started studying the Hokkai Taiko style at age six, winning the top prize at the National Taiko Ipponuchi Competition four years in a row. In 2010, he joined the Hokkai Ideyu Taiko and formed  Wadaiko ZINKA in 2011. He has performed throughout Hokkaido, Japan, and seven countries worldwide.

Ayaka Kanazawa

 February 7, 1991   Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Started studying the Hokkai Taiko style at age of five. She has won numerous awards at competitions, both individually and as a group. She was scouted by Akitoshi Asano when he was in sixth grade, and went professional after graduating from high school. She formed  Wadaiko ZINKA in 2011. In 2012, she joined the Hokkaido Ideyu Taiko group. She has performed worldwide with ZINKA and other Taiko Groups.

MAIN MEMBER

Yousuke Inoue

June 11, 1987

Yamatokoriyama City, Nara Prefecture

Shinpei Yamakawa

 May 2, 1987

Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture

Hayato Nakasya

 May 3, 1986

Fukui Prefecture

Akiko Haze

July 1, 1991

Akita City, Akita Prefecture

SUPPORT MEMBER

Karen Yoneya

September 19, 1995

Noboribetsu, Hokkaido

Gaia

September 5, 1993

Oshamanbe, Hokkaido

Yuta Kobayashi

 May 17, 1994

Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture

Sara Yamaguchi

August 9, 2007

Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture

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