Amazing Edo Tokyo: Rediscovering Tokyo's Artisanal Legacy

From June 6 to 16, Seiko House Hall in Tokyo's Ginza district is hosting an exhibition titled Amazing Edo Tokyo: Treasures of Tokyo for Tomorrow. This expo showcases artisanal techniques and well-known products developed in Tokyo and passed down since the Edo period.

In 2023, renowned watch manufacturer Seiko launched the Time and Japanese Culture Project to rediscover and share Japan's cultural allure. As part of this project, department store retailer Wako and Tokyo's Edo Tokyo Kirari Project collaborated to set up this exhibition. It celebrates Tokyo's rich heritage while embracing the spirit of modernity. Meanwhile, it also promotes Japanese culture's essence to both domestic and international audiences.

A recent press preview highlighted the innovative endeavors of eight participating companies. From age-old craftsmanship to modern advancements, Tokyo's rich cultural landscape unfolds, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its vibrant essence.

*A display featuring the traditional and modern "kumihimo" by Ryukobo. (Courtesy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government)*

Ryukobo Workshop

Established in 1889, Ryukobo is Tokyo's sole workshop dedicated to the meticulous crafting of yarns tailored specifically for kumihimo (braided cords). The company oversees every aspect, from dyeing and design to assembly.

Under the expertise of contemporary master artisan Takashi Fukuda, Ryukobo ventures beyond the traditional confines of kimono craftsmanship.

Alongside kumihimo for holding the obi, the workshop presents an array of innovative products. Kumihimo techniques are also used for chairs, umbrellas, and stationery. These offerings are designed to expand the reach of kumihimo craftsmanship to a broader audience. In turn, the company believes that will foster greater appreciation for this traditional Japanese craft.

Ryukobo has refined kumihimo using techniques and knowledge inherited from previous generations. An example of its modern adaptations was seen in the 2019 Rugby World Cup hosted by Japan. The company crafted medal ribbons and commemorative mats for the competition using pure domestic silk kumihimo.

Calligraphy

Carre MOJI embodies a fusion of traditional Japanese calligraphy and contemporary aesthetics, creating a captivating interior artwork.

Combining the French word for a serene courtyard, "carre," with the Japanese word moji, meaning character, Carre MOJI uniquely merges cultural concepts.

Since its inception in 2002, Carre MOJI has aspired to fashion "warm and inviting spaces imbued with characters." Its goal is to present this concept as a novel expression of Japanese culture worldwide.

"Our pieces adorn hotels, public spaces, and the private residences of clients both in Japan and internationally," says senior manager Emi Takahashi.

Takahashi discussed some of the artistic challenges her company faces. "Crafting artwork suitable for interior decor presents a unique challenge," she explains. "Art designed for personal expression differs significantly from pieces intended to complement a room's ambiance."

That is why Carre MOJI selects calligraphers based not just on their calligraphy skills but also on their design sense. Thirteen distinguished calligraphers, carefully chosen from all over Japan, bring their exceptional calligraphy skills and elegant design sense to the company.

"We also receive direct inquiries from around the globe via email," Takahashi reveals. "This is just the beginning for us."

*Leather bags by Tsuchiya Kaban. (Courtesy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government)*

Leather Goods

Founded in 1965, Tsuchiya Kaban is a Japanese leather goods brand. Its origins lie in a Tokyo workshop opened by a craftsman known for crafting randoseru, Japan's famous school backpacks.

With a mission to cultivate enduring value, the company explains its dedication to the comprehensive planning, manufacturing, sales, and repair of randoseru and other leather products. Tsuchiya says it strives for meticulous craftsmanship to achieve timeless elegance and simplicity infused with Japanese sensibility and artisanal mastery. In the company's view, that ensures a lasting appeal.

"Our line of randoseru tailored for adults is becoming increasingly popular," commented Miyu Yamanouchi, a Business Planning Department representative.

The company operates 31 stores in Japan and overseas, including the Nishi-Arai main store and the Karuizawa Kobo store. Both of these establishments have their own workshops.

In 2022, Founder Kunio Tsuchiya was honored as a Contemporary Master Craftsman by the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. He was also recognized as a Japan Leather Goods Meister by the Japan Leather Industry Association.

*Kumiko pieces by Edo Kumiko Tatematsu. (Courtesy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government)*

'Kumiko' Wooden Latticework

"Kumiko" is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique to create intricately patterned wooden lattice panels. Its origins date back to the Heian period (794-1185) when Japanese architectural fittings were first created.

Using the technique, various patterns can be woven together by hand from small pieces of wood without using nails. Numerous traditional kumiko craft patterns draw inspiration from motifs found in Japanese nature, such as cherry blossoms and snow.

Edo Kumiko Tatematsu was founded in 1982 in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo. Founder Matsuo Tanaka honed his skills in kumiko work through self-teaching during his tenure at a joinery shop. Today, alongside his son, Takahiro Tanaka, he upholds the tradition of meticulous handcrafted work, eschewing reliance on machinery.

While adhering to tradition, the workshop's range of modern items showcasing the exquisite artistry of kumiko has started gaining traction. It produces such items as tables, cabinets, vases, and paper lantern-style lighting.

*Two noren by Nakamura Inc. (Courtesy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government)*

Noren

From 1923 to 2006, Nakmura Inc. operated a shikkaiya in Kanda, Tokyo. Traditionally, a shikkaiya was a business acting as an intermediary overseeing multiple stages of kimono production. Nakamura offered services such as kimono dyeing, washing, and tailoring.

In 2014 it began planning, designing, manufacturing, and producing noren, the traditional Japanese shop curtains. For this, it teamed up with like-minded makers and creators as a modern shikkaiya.

CEO Shin Nakamura spoke about his company's product and its aim to break into foreign markets. "We specialize in crafting custom-made noren," he shared. "While noren are common in Japan, they represent a distinctive cultural tradition for those outside Japan. That is why we highlight their appeal with various designs."

Through its business activities, Nakamura aims to innovate noren designs and present a variety of Japanese arts and crafts. It also seeks to share the rich cultural heritage cultivated over Japan's long history with the world.

With a captivating blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity, visitors can expect to be mesmerized by the beauty and depth of Japanese culture. From the intricate patterns of kumiko woodwork to the graceful strokes of calligraphy, every exhibit promises to enchant and inspire.

If you are interested in Tokyo's history and crafts, this is a "don't miss" opportunity to immerse yourself in the metropolis's timeless charm and vibrant spirit.

Find clear instructions for easy access on the exhibition website .The event is on through June 16.

Author: Daniel Manning