#Japan #Kumamoto #Tanaka Tatsuya #Kohei Higashi

Kumamoto Traditional Craft Museum Reopening

The Kumamoto Traditional Craft Museum, located in the heart of Kumamoto City, is set to reopen on March 20, 2024, after its first major renovations since its opening in 1982. With the renovations, the museum aims to provide a vibrant hub for traditional crafts from Kumamoto Prefecture, featuring an expanded shop and a newly added café.

A Hub of Traditional Crafts

The museum, one of only two prefectural traditional craft museums in Japan, will significantly increase the display rooms from 2 to 6 on the second floor, offering a more open space designed to overlook the iconic Kumamoto Castle. The ground floor will house a new café and lounge, providing visitors with a comfortable space to relax and enjoy refreshments.

The retail area will have more space and seasonal displays to create photogenic spots for visitors. The craft shop, Shokai, will showcase officially designated traditional crafts including signature items like Higo Zogan (metal inlay work) and pottery, as well as charming local toys such as Hikokichi spinning tops and Koha Saru monkeys. Custom orders will also be available, making it an ideal destination for those who want to experience Kumamoto’s rich craft culture.

Special Opening Events

To celebrate the reopening, the museum will host a range of dynamic events targeting visitors of all ages. Two special exhibitions will run from March 20 to May 17, 2024:

Special Exhibition 1: "Miniature Kumamoto Journey"

In collaboration with world-renowned miniature photographer and artist Tatsuya Tanaka, this exhibition will recreate beautiful landscapes across Kumamoto in miniature, highlighting the region's traditional crafts and local produce. Visitors will witness the creative revival of Kumamoto post-earthquake, along with captivating vistas from the Aso region and beyond.

Related Event: Artist Talk by Tatsuya Tanaka

• - Date: March 20, 2024
• - Time: 10:30 AM - 11:00 AM
• - Location: Basement Conference Room
• - Registration: Free, limited to 50 participants.

Special Exhibition 2: "News Paper Animals" by Kohei Higashi

This exhibit will showcase vibrant animal sculptures crafted solely from newspaper and cellophane tape by sculptor Kohei Higashi. His works breathe life into everyday materials and are sure to enchant both children and adults alike.

Related Event: Workshop by Kohei Higashi

• - Date: March 20, 2024
• - Time: 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM (1-hour sessions)
• - Fee: 1,100 yen per participant
• - Capacity: 10 persons per session, pre-registration required.

Kumamoto Museum Rally

In partnership with the adjacent Kumamoto Prefectural Museum, the Kumamoto Museum Rally invites participants from March 20 to 31, 2024 (excluding closed days). Those who visit both museums will receive special gifts. To participate, simply collect proof of your visit to the Kumamoto Prefectural Museum and bring it to the Traditional Craft Museum for your prize.

The reopening of the Kumamoto Traditional Craft Museum promises to rejuvenate interest in the region's rich craft heritage while providing a fun and educational experience for everyone. With various engaging events and activities planned, community members and visitors alike are encouraged to explore and celebrate the artistic spirit of Kumamoto.

Visiting Information

• - Location: 3-35 Chibajo-machi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City
• - Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM
• - Closed: Every Monday and during year-end holidays (if a holiday falls on a Monday, it will close the following weekday)
• - Official Website: Kumamoto Traditional Craft Museum

For inquiries, reach out to:

• - Phone: 096-324-4930
• - Fax: 096-324-4942