#Japan #Tokyo #Rokkoku Kitchen #Ario Kawauchi #Bunkamura Award

Ario Kawauchi's 'Rokkoku Kitchen' Triumphs at Bunkamura Dumago Literary Award

Kawauchi Ario, a distinguished nonfiction writer, has received the highly esteemed 35th Bunkamura Dumago Literary Award for his compelling new essay, 'Rokkoku Kitchen: Eating Along Route 6'. Having previously garnered accolades for works like 'Sora wo Yuku Kyojin,' which earned him the Akira Kurosawa Non-Fiction Award, and 'The Blind Swan and the Art Journey' winning the Yahoo! News Bookstore Non-Fiction Award, Kawauchi continues to impress with his storytelling.

This year, the award’s selection was particularly noteworthy, as it was judged by the celebrated nonfiction writer, Hazuki Sai. She stated, "I was astonished by the innovative way Kawauchi depicted the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster. I felt compelled to read it until the very end." This recognition speaks volumes about the book’s depth and relevance, as it encapsulates the lives of people living along the Rokkoku (Route 6), highlighting their food and experiences amidst adversity.

Kawauchi's exploration into the human experience—intertwined with food culture—poses an intriguing question: "What kitchens do people use, and what meals do they share with others?" His journey unfolds through unforgettable scenes and is beautifully complemented by stunning photographs taken by photographer Chihiro Ichinose.

In addition to the book, a documentary film titled 'Rokkoku Kitchen,' co-directed by Daisuke Miyoshi, is set to premiere at the Yamagata International Documentary Film Festival on October 12. This feature promises to visualize Kawauchi's literary exploration, bridging the gap between narrative and cinematic storytelling.

Book Details

• - Title: Rokkoku Kitchen
• - Author: Ario Kawauchi
• - Photographer: Chihiro Ichinose
• - Expected Release Date: November 20, 2025
• - Format: Wide 46 version
• - Price: ¥2,200 (excluding tax)
• - Publisher: Kodansha Ltd.

Author Profile

Ario Kawauchi, born in Tokyo in 1972, has traversed numerous countries including the United States, South America, France, and Japan, dedicating 12 years to international cooperation before becoming a freelance writer. Based in Tokyo, he has authored biographies, travelogues, and essays. His previous works, such as 'Baul wo Sagashite: The Secret Song Passed Down in the Corner of the Earth' won him the Nitta Jiro Literary Award. Additionally, Kawauchi co-directed 'The Blind Swan and the Art Journey,' solidifying his reputation in the literary and documentary spheres.

About the Bunkamura Dumago Literary Award

Founded in 1990, the Bunkamura Dumago Literary Award carries forward the unique spirit of the Parisian Dumago Prize. The award seeks innovative and original literary works that transcend conventional paradigms. Every year, a new judge, chosen for a one-year term, selects the winner, emphasizing the award's commitment to fostering progressive literary voices. The organizing company, Tokyu Bunkamura, continues to celebrate the rich tapestry of contemporary literature.

For more information, please visit the official Bunkamura Dumago Literary Award website at this link.