#Japan #Kyoto #Akie Abe #Rakusho Hiroto #YUI

A Groundbreaking Art Exhibition: 'YUI'

From November 1 to November 9, 2025, Jojuin at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto will host a unique art exhibition titled 'YUI' featuring the talents of Akie Abe and Hiroto Rakusho. This milestone event is notable as it marks Akie Abe's first solo exhibition, showcasing her creative journey in calligraphy alongside Hiroto Rakusho's exquisite metal leaf art.

The title 'YUI' embodies a profound message: the idea of connection and unity. With both artists sharing a vision of promoting peace and harmony, their collaboration aims to transcend cultural and environmental boundaries, encouraging visitors to explore the threads that link people together.

Concept and Background of the Exhibition

The inspiration for 'YUI' originated from a serendipitous encounter when Akie Abe was moved by a piece of art created by Hiroto Rakusho, designed in memory of her late husband, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Akie’s aspiration for world peace resonated with Hiroto, and thus their joint venture emerged, reflecting their shared hopes and values as artists.

The exhibition aims to convey that through the union of different art forms—calligraphy and metal leaf—a new aesthetic experience arises, fostering connections among diverse communities and cultures.

Exhibition Details

• - Title: Akie Abe “Calligraphy” × Hiroto Rakusho “Metal Leaf Art”
• - Exhibition: YUI — The Bond
• - Dates: November 1 (Saturday) – November 9 (Sunday), 2025
• - Venue: Otowa-san Kiyomizu-dera, Jojuin Temple
• - Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0862, Japan
• - Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM; final day until 3:00 PM)
• - Admission: 600 yen
• - Support: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
• - Organizers: Akie Abe × Hiroto Rakusho Exhibition Executive Committee × COBI Co., Ltd.
• - Official Website: Visit Here

About the Artists

Akie Abe

As a former First Lady, Akie Abe’s engagement in multiple social arenas—education, cultural exchange, and environmentalism—has fostered her artistic sensibility. Inspired by her late mother-in-law, who was skilled in calligraphy, Akie found a voice in writing that emphasizes emotional and human connection. 'YUI' will serve as her introduction to the world of calligraphy art, where she aspires to weave connections between tradition and modernity.

Hiroto Rakusho

Renowned as a metal leaf artisan from Kyoto, Hiroto Rakusho has dedicated his life to refining the art of foil application. His works, characterized by their breathtaking light and aesthetics, have gained acclaim both domestically and internationally. With a commitment to ensure traditional craftsmanship continues to thrive, he has exhibited his masterpieces worldwide—from New York to London—while also engaging in restoration projects for historic Japanese temples.

The Artworks

Over 30 collaborative pieces will showcase the fusion of Akie’s calligraphy and Hiroto’s metal leaf art. Each piece communicates an aspect of connection:

• - “YUI — Connect People” combines auspicious symbols to signify unity through art.
• - “You & I” plays on the intimacy of personal connections.
• - “WA — Peace” emphasizes the harmony sought in relationships among people and nature.
• - “Hana wa Saku — Flowers Will Bloom” reflects on the hopes for the future.

Venue Highlights

Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will provide not just a backdrop for the exhibition but imbue it with its rich cultural history. The exhibition will take place specifically at Jojuin, known for its serene 'Tsuki-no-niwa' (Garden of the Moon), where tranquility and artistic beauty merge.

This event is indeed a cultural milestone that will allow attendees to experience and appreciate art that resonates deeply with themes of connection and togetherness. If you're in Kyoto during this time, make sure not to miss this unique fusion of artistry at a location steeped in history and significance.

For inquiries, please contact the Akie Abe × Hiroto Rakusyo Exhibition Executive Committee at [email protected].