Echoes of Nature

A Benefit Concert for Hakone’s Koi Pond Renovation

Friday, September 11, 2026 | 5:30–8:30 PM

Join us for a special evening of music, nature, and community at Hakone Gardens featuring renowned taiko artist Kenny Endo with guest artists Abe Lagrimas Jr. (drums, vibraphone, ukulele) and Jay Lai (guzheng, keyboard, vocals).

Set within the beauty of Hakone’s historic Japanese garden, Echoes of Nature explores the connection between music and the natural world, from the powerful resonance of taiko to the subtle rhythms, movement, and stillness found throughout a Japanese garden.

Proceeds from the evening directly support the future of Hakone, benefiting the renovation of Hakone’s 109 year old koi pond.

Make an Evening of It!

Guests are invited to arrive early, wander the gardens, and bring their own picnic dinner and enjoy their meal surrounded by the beauty of Hakone while watching this special performance. 

About Hakone Estate and Gardens

For more than a century, Hakone’s Koi Pond has been at the heart of the garden, a place for reflection, gathering, and connection with nature. Today, this historic landscape is in need of significant restoration.

By joining us for this special benefit performance, you are helping preserve Hakone while also supporting our mission to foster cultural exchange and create meaningful opportunities for people to experience Japanese art, culture, and landscape traditions.

Come experience an unforgettable evening where music and nature meet, and help us care for Hakone for the next generation.

Taiko is the ancient Japanese art of drumming, combining bold rhythms with dynamic movement and storytelling. Originally trained as a jazz musician, Kenny Endo is a pioneer of contemporary taiko, renowned worldwide for his innovative fusion of traditional Japanese drumming with global musical influences. Based in Hawaii, Kenny’s performances seamlessly blend tradition and modern artistry, captivating audiences with powerful rhythms and cross-cultural collaborations.