#Japan #Tokyo #UMITO Partners #Shibuya Hikarie #Sustainable Fisheries

Exploring the Future of Oceans and Humanity

In a world increasingly aware of the impact of human activity on the environment, UMITO Partners is stepping up its efforts by presenting a thought-provoking event titled "Umito, Hito to. - Living with the Sea, Human Ingenuity -" at Shibuya Hikarie from August 23 to August 31, 2025. This free exhibition will explore the innovative practices of local fishermen who strive to maintain healthy oceans for future generations.

The installation will display the ecological challenges facing Japan's coastal waters, including the rising sea temperatures, declining biodiversity, and the reduction of resources such as fish. The aim is to highlight the various approaches taken by fishermen in their efforts to foster sustainability and promote a better understanding of seafood.

A Collaboration for a Sustainable Future

In collaboration with the creative studio P.O.S.T. studio, the exhibition adopts a multi-faceted perspective on food and sustainability. The event reflects on the pressing need for sustainable solutions within our food systems, where marine life plays an essential role. Visitors will see how local communities are working together to preserve their mountainous aquatic environments through engaging installations that combine visuals, sound, and explanations that resonate with the audience.

Engaging Talks and Insights

On the opening day, August 23, a special talk session will be held at 16:00 featuring UMITO Partners’ CEO Shunji Murakami and Go Sato from KURKKU FIELDS — an initiative in Chiba Prefecture focused on creating a harmonious environment with nature. This session is expected to shed light on the current status of coastal fisheries and sustainable seafood movements. The dialogue will be framed within the context of ongoing projects that aim not only to raise awareness but also to inspire action from audiences.

Featured Speakers

• - Shunji Murakami: Born in Fukuoka, graduated from San Francisco State University specializing in natural geography and business, he has held various environmental positions and is currently leading UMITO Partners’ initiatives for sustainable fisheries and marine consulting.
• - Go Sato: Raised in Tokyo and Yugawara, he developed a strong connection to the outdoors from an early age. After working at Patagonia for a decade and exploring his ideal lifestyle, he joined KURKKU FIELDS to promote ecological sustainability and circular economies.

The Focus of the Exhibition

The central theme of the exhibition is “What is sustainable seafood?” and will spotlight innovations from five regions in Japan where fishermen are implementing sustainable practices. Examples include:

• - Tomamae Town, Hokkaido: Traditional methods for catching octopus mindful of resource management.
• - Okayama, Oku Town: Sustainable oyster farming combined with habitat restoration efforts.
• - Yakeshiri Island, Hokkaido: Initiatives to improve sea urchin populations by protecting kelp habitats.
• - Hirono Town, Hokkaido: Utilizing washed-up kelp for various applications.
• - Tomamae Town: Collaborations aimed at enhancing sustainable distribution channels for sardines.

These narratives highlight the ingenuity of fishermen and their interconnectedness with the environment, framing a conversation around the importance of sustainable seafood.

Event Details

• - Exhibition: "Umito, Hito to."

- Dates: August 23 - 31, 2025
- Location: aiiima showcase, 8th Floor, Shibuya Hikarie, 2-21-1 Shibuya, Tokyo
- Admission: Free

• - Talk Session: Reserved seating; cost of admission is 1,000 yen (tax included).

- Date: August 23, 2025, 16:00 - 17:30
- Reservation: Available starting August 12, 18:00 at Event Link

The rising temperatures and pollution in our oceans could make seafood unavailable in the near future; this exhibition aims not just to inform but to inspire immediate action from the public. UMITO Partners hopes that by connecting urban residents with the realities faced by fishermen, it can foster a stronger commitment to sustainable practices among individuals.

Ultimately, this initiative not only aims to spotlight the relationship between humans and the sea but also encourages a collective shift toward a sustainable, marine-positive approach, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.