#Japan #Tokyo #Lexus Koishikawa #Ristorante Sakura Mirror #Challenged Design

Lexus Koishikawa's 20th Anniversary Project

Lexus Koishikawa, located in Bunkyo, Tokyo, is set to mark its 20th anniversary with a unique and collaborative dining event titled "LEXUS Koishikawa meets Ristorante Sakura Mirror x Challenged Design Tableware - A Dining Experience Where Sensibilities Intersect". This remarkable project, emphasizing social contribution, art, and cuisine, takes place in collaboration with Ristorante Sakura Mirror in Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture and the NPO organization, Technological Collection, which promotes the talents of children with disabilities through art.

Purpose and Background

Established in 2005, Lexus Koishikawa aims to enrich lives through the spirit of craftsmanship known as "CRAFTED." Celebrating its milestone anniversary, the event underlines the core values of Lexus—\(美意識\) aestheticism, \(クラフツマンシップ\) craftsmanship, and respect for diversity. By merging food, art, and social support, this collaboration aims to foster greater understanding of diversity and shine a light on Japan's traditional crafts.

Throughout the event, guests will enjoy a special course menu at Ristorante Sakura Mirror, utilizing tableware adorned with children’s artwork from the Challenged Design initiative. These beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces feature designs on Arita-yaki and Hasami-yaki ceramics, showcasing the creativity of the young artists. This unique culinary experience not only highlights the intersecting differences but also creates a new appreciation for the diversity of talent and Japanese artisanship.

Additionally, during the event, Lexus Koishikawa will serve drinks to customers using Challenged Design mugs, incorporating the artwork of these talented young designers into everyday experiences.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Lexus Koishikawa 20th Anniversary Project LEXUS Koishikawa meets Ristorante Sakura Mirror x Challenged Design Tableware - A Dining Experience Where Sensibilities Intersect
• - Event Period: October 2 (Thursday) to October 19 (Sunday), 2025. Note that the dinners on October 4-5 and October 18-19 will be special private events for Lexus Koishikawa's clients.
• - Location: Ristorante Sakura Mirror, 3373-20 Higashidanaka, Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture.
• - Content: Special course menu featuring Challenged Design tableware, priced at 8,800 yen (tax included) and above.

The Birth of Challenged Design Tableware

The project was conceived with the vision of creating opportunities for children with disabilities to engage with society through art. This vision aligned with Technological Collection’s mission to promote Japan’s exquisite traditional crafts internationally. The first installment of the project features pieces from emerging Arita-yaki artist Jun Nakao and long-established Hasami-yaki brand Tanshinkama, uniquely enhanced with the vibrant art of the Challenged Designers®.

Featured images include tableware that incorporates designs from different Challenged Designers® such as JunJun and KOU, merging their artistic flair with traditional Japanese pottery techniques.

Culinary Experience at Ristorante Sakura Mirror

Chef Toru Kuroba, based at Ristorante Sakura Mirror, is eager to welcome numerous guests during the event. Attendees will experience the imaginative interplay of the children's artistic expressions and the chef's culinary craftsmanship in each dish served. The menu may change daily, but the focus on high-quality local ingredients remains a consistent hallmark of Kuroba's philosophy.

As a Lexus dealership, Lexus Koishikawa transcends mere automotive sales, aiming to foster experiences that bridge sensibilities and societal contributions. The event exemplifies a commitment to community engagement and cultural preservation through the arts.

About Our Partners

• - Ristorante Sakura Mirror: An Italian restaurant at the highlands of Gotemba, offering seasonal dishes that showcase local ingredients, skillfully crafted by Chef Toru Kuroba, boasting experience at top establishments including El Bulli.
• - Technological Collection: This NPO is dedicated to preserving and promoting Japan's traditional culture and crafts, focusing on tableware. They advocate for international visibility and sales of Japanese heritage.
• - Crossteam Co., Ltd: Founded in June 2017, this company focuses on creating art through the collaboration of disabled individuals and professionals, promoting social inclusion via creative projects. The term "Challenged Designer®" refers to artists who embrace their potential despite their disabilities.

More information about the event and partners can be found on their respective websites.