Witness the Japanese
craftsmanship
ものづくり"Monodukuri"
Japanese craftsmen are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s the intricate weave of a handmade kimono, the masterful forging of a katana, or the delicate glazing of a pottery piece, every element is thoughtfully considered and executed with unparalleled precision.
At JapanFest this year, you’ll have the unique opportunity to witness the skill and pride of "Monozukuri" firsthand, as three master craftsmen demonstrate their exceptional artistry.
KUMIHIMO MASTER
組み紐職人
Kumihimo (組紐) is a traditional Japanese braiding technique used to create intricate and decorative cords. The term "kumihimo" translates to "gathered threads," reflecting the method of interlacing multiple strands to form a strong and flexible cord. Historically, kumihimo cords have served both practical and ornamental purposes.
In the 2016 animated film Your Name
(君の名は), directed by Makoto Shinkai, kumihimo holds symbolic significance, resonating with the movie’s themes of connection, fate, and the passage of time. The braiding process in the film represents the intertwining of different moments and paths, illustrating the convergence of time and experiences. This visual metaphor aligns with the film’s exploration of time travel, memory, and destiny.
Toshi Hatta, a renowned kumihimo artisan from Uji City, Kyoto, creates stunning pieces that merge beauty and functionality, enchanting visitors to Kyoto. Guests can experience kumihimo firsthand by trying their hand at braiding on a stand, enjoying the soothing rhythm of the wooden bobbins. Engage in a mini kumihimo-making session to appreciate this timeless craft.
STONE MASON
石工彫刻師
Stonemason(石工彫刻師) is a highly skilled stone sculptor who blends artistic vision with technical expertise to craft and preserve stone works, from sculptures to architectural details. This craft is deeply rooted in tradition and artistry.
Takaaki Saita, a fifth-generation craftsman from Saita Stone Workshop in Kameoka, Kyoto, specializes in stone processing and carving. Using traditional chisels and stone hammers, he creates exquisite Kyoto stone crafts, including stone lanterns. At JapanFest, he will demonstrate his craft and offer attendees the chance to try carving and chiseling stone with the same tools.
Tatami Master
畳職人
Tatami craftsmen ( 畳職人）specialize in the traditional art of making tatami mats, which are essential components of Japanese homes, temples and other traditional spaces. These craftsmen oversee the entire process of creating tatami mats, from measuring the space to cutting the straw or other materials to size, weaving the layers together, and sewing the edge fabric known as tatami-beri.
Becoming a tatami craftsman requires years of rigorous training, often under the guidance of a master. This expertise is passed down through generations, preserving the traditional methods and high standards of this craft.
A tatami craftsman ensures that tatami mats continue to be an integral part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Masayoshi Honda, a tatami craftsman from Chiba prefecture and the 14th generation of Tatami-manufacturer Hiroshimaya, will showcase his skills at JapanFest. He will demonstrate how to weave igusa (a type of rush grass) into tatami mats and offer attendees the chance to try weaving igusa themselves. Additionally, various unique accessories handmade by Mr. Honda will be available for purchase.