#Japan #Ishigaki Island #Ishigaki #Zenryu #Fukurokuju

A Cultural Showcase: Art & Music in Ishigaki

The island of Ishigaki recently played host to a remarkable cultural event, showcasing the talents of local calligraphy artist Zenryu (Shorounin Zenryu) and his classmate, musician Makoto Irami, as part of the Fukurokuju Exhibition. Held at the Kura Sake & Gallery from January 19 to 26, 2026, this event marked Zenryu's first solo exhibition in his hometown.

As part of the exhibition, an engaging Art & Music Session took place on January 23, which attracted more than 60 attendees, establishing a record number of visitors for the Kura Sake & Gallery since its opening. The vibrant atmosphere of the event was filled with creativity and community spirit, as guests experienced a delightful fusion of art and music.

The Exhibition

The Fukurokuju Exhibition was a showcase of Zenryu’s calligraphy art, featuring works on various mediums such as hanging scrolls, canvases, and limestone slate. Among the diverse exhibits, one particular highlight was Zenryu’s “Color Inversion Art.” This innovative approach used camera inversion techniques to reveal textures and details that are invisible to the naked eye, captivating the audience as they explored the gallery with their smartphones.

Throughout the exhibition, Zenryu was present to interact with visitors and also held a special selling event where he wrote personal names and meaningful phrases on business card-sized paper. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, drawing not only tourists but also many friends and acquaintances from his past, creating a close-knit community experience.

The Art & Music Session

The collaboration continued on January 23, during the Art & Music Session, where Zenryu and Irami combined their artistic talents. The event commenced with an engaging talk session, followed by an unforgettable live performance. Set to the tunes of Irami's a cappella singing, Zenryu spontaneously created calligraphy pieces inspired by popular songs, garnering enthusiastic applause from the attendees.

The performance was a rich tapestry of musical genres, including classic Showa pop covers and acoustic guitar renditions. Irami shared his thoughts on local pride and family values, fostering a heartfelt connection among the audience, who were united by a shared appreciation for their heritage.

Feature Artists

Zenryu (Shorounin Zenryu)

Zenryu is a celebrated calligraphy artist whose works blend traditional methods with modern art influences. Raised in Ishigaki, he studied calligraphy from a young age and pursued a degree in fine arts and design. He has held numerous exhibitions both nationally and internationally, actively participating in performances and workshops that demonstrate the beauty and energy of ink artistry.

Makoto Irami

Irami is the founder of Goya Company and the creator of the beloved “Shimabuta no Kokoro” product. He is a specialist in food sanitation and has gained experience as a rehearsal vocalist for renowned artists, including Keisuke Kuwata of Southern All Stars. Since returning to his hometown, he has actively contributed to local development through his music, helping to invigorate the community.

Call for Participants

In an effort to continue fostering artistic expression in Ishigaki, Kura Sake & Gallery is seeking performers from various disciplines, including music, dance, and visual arts, who wish to showcase their talents. The gallery aims to provide a free platform for artists, encouraging diversity and creativity within the local arts scene. Interested individuals can find more information and apply through the submission link provided on their official website.

About Ishigaki Island Hotel Cucule

Located in the heart of Ishigaki, Hotel Cucule has been thoughtfully renovated to provide a unique experience for guests. The name “Cucule,” meaning “heart” in the Okinawan dialect, reflects the hotel's mission to create warm connections between guests and staff. The interior blends natural materials with the rich environment of Ishigaki, while the ground floor features Kura Sake & Gallery, alongside a childcare facility on the fourth floor, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to community engagement.

With its vibrant arts and cultural programs, this unique venue continues to support local talent and enrich the lives of visitors and residents alike.