Photo Exhibition 'Noto'
The Noto Peninsula, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, faced significant challenges following the Noto Peninsula earthquake and the heavy rains in September 2024. In response to this tragedy, the Ishikawa Prefectural Tourism Federation is proud to announce the opening of a photo exhibition titled 'Noto', which will commence on September 12, 2025, across two locations: Osaka and Tokyo.
Event Overview
The exhibition will first launch at the Expo '70 Pavilion in Osaka's Expo Memorial Park from September 12 to September 28, 2025. Following this, it will move to Tokyo Midtown Yaesu's Innovation Field from October 15 to November 5, 2025.
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Venue: Expo '70 Pavilion, Osaka, Japan
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Dates: September 12 - September 28, 2025
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Admission Fee: 500 yen for adults (high school students and above), free for junior high school students and below (accompanied by a guardian). Note that a separate entrance fee for the park applies.
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Venue: Innovation Field, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu, 5th floor
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Dates: October 15 - November 5, 2025
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Admission Fee: Free
The exhibition focuses on the current state of recovery in Noto, emphasizing the region's cultural traditions and livelihoods as they rejuvenate. This initiative aims to foster a personal connection between visitors and the resilient spirit of the community.
The Vision Behind the Exhibition
Curated by seasoned producer and director Naoki Takashiro, the exhibition features works from renowned photographers, including Masakazu Miyazawa, Herbie Yamaguchi, Eiichi Yoshioka, and Saka Matsuda. Each artist will share their unique perspectives, translating the beauty of Noto into stunning visual narratives.
Miyazawa has captured the natural beauty and warm spirit of the local communities, while Yamaguchi’s work encapsulates themes of hope and resilience, especially poignant amidst personal challenges. Matsuda and Yoshioka draw on their experiences from the recent earthquake to shed light on how Noto’s festivals and cultural activities are continuing to thrive.
Emotional Impact
Naoki Takashiro's insight resonates throughout the exhibition's narrative, as he aims to preserve the memories of the disaster while projecting the strength of hope and the beauty inherent in everyday life in Noto. The exhibition doesn't just present photographic art; it also serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional landscapes that accompany such experiences.
There is an emphasis on not letting the memories of disasters fade but instead using them as a bridge to foster understanding and empathy for those affected. Visitors can expect to view not only scenes of recovery but also the festivals and cultural legacies that form the backbone of Noto’s identity. This is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of the people and an invitation to witness the beauty and power of community resilience.
Why Visit?
Attendees will witness compelling narratives that celebrate the region's identity while learning about its ongoing journey to recovery. As each photographer brings their own interpretation, collective stories of hope, strength, and beauty unfold through their images. The photographs are not mere representations; they embody the voice of a community united in adversity, resilience, and rebirth.
In these challenging times, the exhibition 'Noto' is a beacon of support for the region and encourages audiences to reflect on their roles in fostering recovery not just in Noto, but across similar communities worldwide.