Zendeko has been called "one of the premier" youth-oriented cultural performing arts groups in the United States. The group performs the thunderous art of traditional Japanese drumming or "Taiko" and other classical instruments. The members come from all over Southern California to train, and are from a variety of cultural backgrounds. Based in Downtown Los Angeles at Zenshuji Soto Mission, the members practice Taiko while also developing an understanding of Zen Buddhism.
The program is proud to offer a place where young adults are given an opportunity to develop an appreciation for heritage and customs, while providing Japanese American cultural awareness to audiences around the world.