手工芸・いろいろな素材の違い
『産地の技術と魅力の共演 ～職人の想いをのせて～』

Craftsmanship and the Differences in Various Materials: The Collaboration of Local Techniques and Charms, With the Thoughts of Artisans

The pinnacle of paulownia chests, "Osaka Senshu Kiri-Dansu."

Senshu region, located in the southwestern part of Osaka Prefecture, has a 300-year history as the birthplace of paulownia chests. Recognized as a traditional craft by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, over 90% of Osaka Senshu Kiri-Dansu is produced in Kishiwada. Paulownia wood has the unique ability to absorb moisture during humid periods and release it during dry times. Unlike other types of wood, paulownia has a slightly alkaline property that repels insects. With its airtightness, humidity control, and insect-proof qualities, paulownia chests are a traditional craft that Japan takes pride in and cannot be found in other regions.

Beauty for your hair with a Tsuge comb

This traditional comb has been around since ancient times, even mentioned in the Man'yoshu, an anthology from the Nara period. Approximately 70% of Tsuge comb production takes place in Kaizuka City, Osaka Prefecture, and it is a traditional craft that Kaizuka City is proud of.
There are many types of wooden combs in the world, but Tsuge combs are considered the finest. They are hard and resilient, making them difficult to break, and their surface is incredibly smooth and polished. This smooth glide through the hair is one of the defining features of Tsuge combs.
At the LOCAL JAPAN exhibition, we will introduce the charm of Tsuge combs through exhibits and demonstrations by craftmen.
We hope you will experience shiny and beautiful hair with Tsuge combs.

The Glove Town with a 90% Share in Japan

Higashi-Kagawa City in Kagawa Prefecture is a major hub for glove production, boasting a market share of 90% for fashion, cold-weather, and various sports gloves in Japan. With a history dating back to the Meiji era, the glove industry in Higashi-Kagawa City has adapted to evolving customer needs over 130 years.It is renowned not only domestically but also globally as a leading glove production area known for its diverse range of products and high-quality craftsmanship. Additionally, the city has expanded its production to include leather goods that utilize glove-making techniques.

Tosa Torafu Bamboo, Unique to Japan

"Tora-fu take" belongs to the pleioblastus species of bamboo and is a unique type found only in the Tora bamboo village of Anwa, Sukumo City, Kochi Prefecture. It is a mysterious bamboo with tiger-like patterns appearing on the surface of its stems, hence the name "Tosa Torafu" (Tiger-Spotted Bamboo). At the LOCAL JAPAN exhibition, we will introduce the allure of Tosa Torafu bamboo along with the history and local culture of Sukumo City. Experience the warmth of the people of Sukumo City and the natural beauty of bamboo at the venue.

Preserving the Masterful Art of Danjiri Carvings

Danjiri festivals have a history of over 300 years, starting in the mid-Edo period. While their dynamic processions running through the city leave a lasting impression, the intricate carvings adorning them make them akin to “running artworks.” The stories depicted in the carvings often come from popular Kabuki plays, Bunraku puppet theater, and Koudan narrative storytelling, making them widely recognized by the public. Carvers use ukiyo-e prints and illustrations from picture books as references to create preliminary sketches, based on which they carve the exquisite designs onto keyaki (zelkova) wood. Witness the delicate yet powerful sculptures at the LOCAL JAPAN exhibition.