Reviving Crafts
2025-05-14 05:01:05

Reviving Traditional Crafts: The 2nd DENTO Support Program Launch Event

Reviving Traditional Crafts: The 2nd DENTO Support Program Launch Event



Japan is home to a wealth of traditional crafts, nurtured by artisans over centuries. However, recent changes in lifestyle have led to a significant decline in demand for these crafts, coupled with a shortage of successors, placing their future in jeopardy. To rejuvenate and sustain this cultural heritage, DENTO Co., Ltd. (Ukyō-ku, Kyoto; CEO Avi Lugashi) has been established to offer unique experiences for affluent international tourists seeking genuine travel experiences through its craft tourism initiative, "DENTO Dento". By facilitating direct interactions between travelers and traditional craftsmen, tourists not only engage with the artisans but also play a part in supporting them by purchasing their products.

This socially responsible approach to travel is defined as "Support Tourism." A portion of the revenue generated from travel will be invested into the NPO DENTO, aiming to encourage and support the next generation of traditional craft practitioners. Starting in 2024, we will implement the DENTO Support Program, marking its second iteration this year. It is our hope that through this program, the upcoming guardians of traditional crafts will thrive, further enriching Japan’s cultural legacy.

Overview of the DENTO Support Program



1. Support for Young Artisans (Apprentice Development Program)
This program aims to support organizations and individuals willing to accept successors and pass down traditional techniques.
Funding Amount: Up to 150,000 yen per month for a maximum of 12 months, totaling up to 1.8 million yen for three recipients.

2. DENTO Awards
- Craft Award (Products and Works)
Awarding products deemed suitable for the "next generation of craft" by various organizations and individuals involved in traditional crafts.
Support Amount: 300,000 yen for one recipient in the general craft sector (no limits on craft types).
- Creative Award (New Product Ideas)
Recognizing innovative product development ideas by entities involved with traditional crafts.
Support Amount: 300,000 yen for one recipient.

The application period for the Young Artisan Support Program and DENTO Awards is from May 27, 2025, to June 30, 2025. The winners will be announced in late July on our official website.

Details of the 2nd DENTO Support Program Briefing and Case Presentation



We will hold the details briefing for the 2nd DENTO Support Program as well as past case presentations on May 27th in Kyoto and May 28th in Tokyo. Presenters will include Avi Lugashi (CEO of DENTO, representative of Windows To Japan), Minaaki Saito (former vice president of Hermès Paris, president of Scenery International), and Kotaro Nishibori (representative of TCI Research Institute and Hiyoshiya Co., Ltd.). They will elaborate on the "DENTO Dento" initiative, the accomplishments of last year’s support program, and provide information on this year's support initiatives. There will be a networking event following the presentations.

Event Schedule:
May 27 (Kyoto) & May 28 (Tokyo)
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Presentation
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM Networking (light refreshments available)
Locations:
  • - Tokyo: City Lab Tokyo, 6th Floor, Tokyo Square Garden, 3-1-1 Kyobashi, Chuo City, Tokyo 104-0031.
  • - Kyoto: Kouseiji, 647 Kamitenjinta-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto 602-0082.

In addition to on-site participation, the event will also be streamed online via Zoom. Those wish to participate must register by May 23rd by 12:00 noon using the provided form. The streaming URL will be sent to the registered email address.

Introduction of DENTO and NPO DENTO Executives


  • - Avi Lugashi: Born in Israel in 1964, he first visited Japan in 1989. After graduating from Hebrew University of Jerusalem, he engaged in travel operations across Asia. In 2005, he founded Windows To Japan in Kyoto, now a leading experiential travel company.
  • - Minaaki Saito: Former vice president at Hermès Paris, he has contributed significantly to the brand's development in Japan. Since establishing Scenery International post-Hermès, he works on traditional industries and regional revitalization.
  • - Kotaro Nishibori: A Wakayama native, he became the fifth generation of Hiyoshiya Co., Ltd. in 2004, promoting traditional Japanese umbrellas while collaborating on innovative products with designers and artists globally.

What Is Support Tourism?


Support Tourism is a form of travel aimed at solving local issues by channeling a portion of travel costs toward these solutions. It fosters connections between travelers and local communities, supporting the emergence of fan communities dedicated to uplifting these areas. This symbiotic relationship contributes to sustainable and attractive regional development, establishing a mutually beneficial relationship between travelers and localities.

Contact Information:
DENTO NPO
Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Yamanochi-Miyawaki 15-1 Quest Oike 2F
Established: November 2021
Official Website
Email: dentoinfo2021@gmail.com
Tel: 080-4134-2606
Fax: 050-3730-9607


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