#Japan #Tokyo #Beams #Sakuhara Fumiko #Beppu Bamboo

Exploring Modern Living with Beppu Bamboo Crafts

The unique city of Beppu, renowned for its hot springs, possesses another treasure: its exquisite bamboo crafts. From February 19 to 25, 2026, an engaging exhibition titled 'Hi, Beppu. - The Allure of Beppu Bamboo Crafts' will unfold at the BEAMS Planets Limited Store located in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo. Organized in collaboration with Beppu City and renowned interior stylist Sakuhara Fumiko, this event will reinterpret the traditional art of Beppu bamboo crafting through a contemporary lens.

Under the direction of Sakuhara, the exhibition showcases how Beppu bamboo crafts can breathe life into modern living spaces. Traditionally entwined with Japan’s onsen culture, these bamboo items are not only practical but also serve as stunning decorative elements. The craftsmanship involves splitting bamboo, meticulously weaving, and creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing objects. The lightweight and sturdy nature of bamboo, coupled with its excellent breathability, aligns perfectly with today’s living environments.

Exhibition Concept

Most people might instantly think of hot springs when they hear Beppu’s name. However, the city is also home to a renowned craft: Beppu bamboo weaving. Exhibiting various products such as baskets, strainers, and vases, the exhibition aims to introduce modern interpretations of these traditional items. Attendees will discover items that can be utilized in multiple ways, such as incorporating them into the decor of their homes, blurring the lines between function and style.

Sakuhara Fumiko, who has a reputation for her effective space styling, uses her expertise to highlight the aesthetic beauty and tactile qualities of bamboo crafts. The interplay of light and shadow on woven bamboo, along with its lightness when held, creates a sensory experience that transcends what photographs can convey. Visitors will have the chance to learn about the various types of bamboo, weaving techniques, and tools involved in creating these remarkable objects.

As you explore the exhibition, you'll find that it profoundly transforms your perception of everyday bamboo objects into sophisticated decor pieces. With the contemporary approach inspired by traditional craftsmanship, attendees are sure to leave with a newfound appreciation for Beppu bamboo and perhaps even wishing to take a piece home.

Styling Insights

Stepping into Beppu City for the first time to embark on this project, I was determined to merge the beauty of longstanding bamboo crafts with the essence of contemporary living. My goal was to create settings that resonate with the daily experiences of visitors. The impeccable quality produced by skilled artisans and the inherent versatility of bamboo crafts offer a refreshing dynamic, welcoming diverse interior design styles.

Bamboo’s rapid growth and sustainable nature make it a fitting choice for today’s creative craftsmanship scene. As you marvel at the exhibition, I hope you too will recognize the charming potential of Beppu bamboo crafts.

Sakuhara Fumiko

Event Details

Exhibition: 'Hi, Beppu. - The Allure of Beppu Bamboo Crafts'
Dates: February 19 (Thursday) - February 25 (Wednesday), 2026
    Note: On February 20 (Friday) after 18:00, the venue will host a private reception.
Hours: 11:00 - 20:00 (until 17:00 on the final day)
Venue: BEAMS Planets Limited Store Shimokitazawa
    Located within the 'reload' entrance hall across two floors
Address: 3-19-20 Kitazawa, Setagaya, Tokyo, 155-0031
Admission: Free
Contact: 03-3460-8515 (BEAMS Planets Limited Store Shimokitazawa)

Craftsmen Involved: Ichiro Iwao (Iwao Bamboo Baskets), Kenichi Otani, Seini Amanaka, Ritsuko Ikki (Take-Fusya), Masayo Kondo, Kurimi Kenji, Yu Nishimoto, Maiko Shibata, SUI, Koushi Yoshida.

Credits

Planning: Sakuhara Fumiko, BEAMS Creative
Photography: Masanori Akao
Construction: Kosin Planning
Cooperation: Mountain Morning, BEAMS
PR Support: Daily Press
Organized by: Beppu City

About Sakuhara Fumiko

Sakuhara Fumiko is an acclaimed interior stylist. After gaining experience as an assistant under Michiko Iwatate, she established her independent career in 1996. With an extensive portfolio that includes magazine styling, catalogues, TV commercials, exhibitions, shop displays, set designs, and more, she has remained at the forefront of the industry. Known for her unique ability to blend various styles and tastes, her work resonates with a wide audience.

About BEAMS

Founded in 1976 in Harajuku, Tokyo, BEAMS has set the standard for select shops offering a variety of lifestyle concepts. From fashion to interior design, art, and food, BEAMS has a pioneering legacy of collaboration that generates value through innovative partnerships with brands and creators. With around 170 locations across Japan and Asia, BEAMS serves as a cultural hub that connects diverse communities across generations.