#Japan #Tokyo #Waseda University #Jazz Festival #Haruki Murakami

Waseda International House of Literature Launches Crowdfunding for Women in Jazz Festival

The Waseda International House of Literature, commonly known as the Haruki Murakami Library, has initiated an exciting crowdfunding project titled "Connecting the World Through Literature and Jazz — Support the Challenge of the Haruki Murakami Library." This endeavor aims to gather operational funds for the upcoming "Women in Jazz Festival" scheduled to run from November 2025 for approximately six months, alongside other future events and exhibitions.

Targeting an initial goal of 4 million yen, the campaign is open for contributions from November 10, 2025, until January 31, 2026. Supporting this initiative will help facilitate cultural exchange through literature and jazz, two integral aspects of artistic life embraced by many.

The Vision of the Waseda International House of Literature

Founded following the donation of valuable materials from renowned author Haruki Murakami, the Waseda International House of Literature sets itself apart from traditional libraries by actively engaging in eclectic activities related to literature and the arts. It serves as a research hub for readers and scholars focused on Murakami’s works, international literature, and translated literature. By offering a free and accessible environment, it encourages a passion for literature and music among students and the wider community.

The library hosts various cultural events — from author talks and readings to performances by artists and musicians. This mission reflects Murakami's aspiration for the library to transform into a vibrant space for international dialogue and interaction around literature and culture. A hallmark of this library is the program "Authors Alive!" launched by Murakami, which has grown to be an essential element of its offerings.

Challenging Necessities Amid Supportive Endeavors

The Waseda International House of Literature prides itself on providing most of its diverse events free of charge, stemming from a desire to allow the community and students to experience authentic art. However, operational costs for these initiatives depend solely on donations rather than university funds, which are primarily allocated to education and research.

In previous fundraising rounds, the library garnered support from approximately 2,700 individuals to fund its programs. To maintain its current operational scale and frequency, the library requires about 30 million yen annually, prompting this new crowdfunding campaign to generate broad awareness and gather support for its ongoing efforts.

The Women in Jazz Festival Experience

Set to take place from November 2025 to April 2026, the Women in Jazz Festival aims to shed light on the history and present contributions of female jazz artists, reflecting on themes of rights and free expression in the musical realm. Utilizing jazz, a frequent motif in Murakami's works, the festival intends to weave together literature and music, presenting societal questions that invite community engagement.

Festival Highlights:

• - Exhibition: "Literature and Jazz of Black Women: Following Black Feminism"

Duration: November 13, 2025 – April 19, 2026
Location: 2nd-floor exhibition room, Waseda International House of Literature

• - International Symposium: "Music x Gender Equality – The Creativity and Challenges of Female Performers: From Blues to Jazz and Popular Music"

Speakers: Mariko Nagatomi, Keiko Wells, Marie Buscat, Yuki Sakuma
Date: November 29, 2025, 14:30-16:40
Location: Lecture Room 401, Waseda Campus

• - Book Club with Yoko Nakagawa: "Living with Music — Reflecting the Moves of Epochs and Genders"

Date: December 1, 2025, 18:30-20:00
Location: Basement, Waseda International House of Literature

• - Concert & Talk: "Junko Onishi x Mari Yamazaki – Playing Freedom, Painting the World"

Date: March 3, 2026, 18:30-20:00
Location: Okuma Memorial Hall, Waseda University

This concert featuring world-renowned jazz pianist Junko Onishi and manga artist Mari Yamazaki is set to be a signature event of the festival, showcasing vibrant cultural interactions.

Crowdfunding Project Details:

• - Project Name: Connecting the World Through Literature and Jazz
• - URL: Crowdfunding Link
• - Goal Amount: 4 million yen
• - Fundraising Period: November 10, 2025 – January 31, 2026
• - Funding Purpose: Operational costs for the Women in Jazz Festival and future events
• - Donation format: All-in model
• - Rewards: Contributors can choose from various donation tiers ranging from 3,000 yen to 500,000 yen, offering unique rewards including concert tickets, signed books, and exclusive merchandise.

Comments from the Library Leaders

Director Akihiro Aso:
"As we celebrate four years since our establishment, we have consistently aimed to create a free space where literature and music intersect. Through the Women in Jazz Festival, we highlight the journeys of Black women writers and jazz musicians, aspiring to evoke the power of diversity through art. We wish to foster a setting for dialogue that can link new narratives to the future. Your support in this endeavor would be invaluable."

Deputy Director Yuki Sakuma:
"Jazz, as a music of freedom, improvisation, and dialogue has often overlooked the contributions of female artists throughout its history. The Women in Jazz Festival aims to not only include women in this narrative but to confront the societal norms that have historically hindered their participation, fostering a more inclusive environment for artistic expression and study. Music should connect people, which embodies the spirit we wish to convey through this festival. With your support, we can cultivate an environment where everyone can express themselves without bias. Join us in supporting this cause!"

The Waseda International House of Literature welcomes all enthusiasts and supporters to partake in this artistic endeavor, ensuring that literature and music continue to resonate for generations to come.