Historic Performance at Tokyo Budokan Marks the End of an Era

On the 17th of November, 2023, a historic musical event took place at Tokyo's Budokan, drawing audiences to a vibrant fusion of military and cultural performances. The event featured the US Army and US Marines Bands, harmoniously united with Japanese Taiko drummers to offer a spectacular show at the renowned 14,000-capacity venue.

Significance of the Final Performance

Members of the US Army Japan (USARJ) Band, which originated in 1957, expressed their deep appreciation for being part of this significant final performance. The event not only celebrates the rich history of military music but also marks the conclusion of a remarkable chapter for the band at the famed Budokan.

A Tradition Since 1963

Bearing a tradition that commenced in 1963, the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) Marching Festival has been captivating audiences with dynamic shows, primarily held at Budokan since 1973. The festival has witnessed a diverse range of military bands, extending beyond the US Army to include ensembles from the Air Force, Navy, and Marines, alongside international bands from Australia, France, Germany, India, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

music, military, culture