Experience Ancient Japanese Craftsmanship at MAISON & OBJET PARIS 2026 with Gurunavi

Celebrating Japanese Craftsmanship at MAISON & OBJET PARIS 2026

From September 10 to 14, 2026, Gurunavi, Inc. will unveil a special pavilion titled 'JAPAN WOOD x CRAFTSMANSHIP' at the renowned MAISON & OBJET event in Paris. This significant exhibition aims to highlight the ancient Japanese craftsmanship of Odate Magewappa, a tradition that dates back over 1,000 years.

Live Demonstrations by Master Craftsmen

A key feature of this pavilion will be live demonstrations led by Yoshimasa Shibata, one of only 16 certified masters of the Odate Magewappa craft in Japan. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to witness Shibata's expert techniques, including 'Mage-kakou', a bending method where cedar wood is softened in water over 80°C and shaped solely by hand, and 'Kaba-toji', a sewing technique using wild cherry bark to join pieces together. This immersive experience will allow visitors to appreciate the precision and artistry involved in creating durable and beautiful wooden products.

A Fusion of Tradition and Contemporary Design

In addition to the live demonstrations, the pavilion will feature over 40 meticulously curated wooden products. These items combine traditional Japanese woodworking techniques with modern design elements, resulting in furniture, decor, and tableware that suit contemporary European living spaces. Each piece not only showcases stunning craftsmanship but also utilizes the natural benefits of wood, including its antibacterial properties, capacity for moisture absorption, and temperature-regulating qualities.

Commitment to Sustainability and ESG Goals

Japan's forestry is notable, with approximately 70% of the country's land covered in forests. This commitment to sustainable forestry practices is evident in the 40% of Japanese forests classified as plantation forests. While plantation forests make up only 8% of the total global forest area, Japan holds one of the highest percentages worldwide. This sustainable approach ensures that after trees are harvested, new saplings are planted, promoting a circular use of forest resources.

The products showcased at the pavilion play a vital role in combating climate change by serving as environmentally friendly materials that sequester carbon dioxide throughout their life cycle. The minimized carbon emissions during their manufacture and their longevity contribute significantly to achieving net-zero goals and aligning with corporate ESG initiatives.

Event Details

Pavilion Name:

JAPAN WOOD x CRAFTSMANSHIP

Location:

Paris Nord Villepinte, Hall 6, Stand N120 - P119

Dates:

September 10 - 14, 2026

This year's MAISON & OBJET PARIS represents not just a showcase of products but a celebration of the heritage craftsmanship and sustainable practices of Japan. Visit Gurunavi’s pavilion to immerse yourself in the beauty of Magewappa and see how traditional methods resonate with modern sustainability efforts.