#Japan #Tokyo, Fukuoka #Book Festival #Matsuoka Seigo #ISIS Ed School

Exciting Reading Festivals in November 2025

For book enthusiasts, November 2025 will be a month of compelling events in both Fukuoka and Tokyo, as ISIS Ed School hosts two major book festivals inspired by the innovative reading philosophies of Matsuoka Seigo. Titled "郷読 (Kyoudoku)" and "多読 (Tadoku)", these festivals not only celebrate books but also explore their potential to enrich culture and knowledge in various ways.

Fukuoka's Kyoudoku Festival:

On November 2nd, the Fukuoka chapter of ISIS Ed School will commemorate its 20th anniversary with a unique Kyoudoku event. This festival aims to reinterpret local culture through literature, featuring a dynamic talk session led by key figures such as Tanaka Yuko, the school's president, and notable local publishers. This event also serves to launch the special book, Qten Genki Book ‘九’, which collects 1,000 insightful titles based on Matsuoka's 千夜千冊 (Senya Sensatsu) project. This book navigation initiative highlights local authors and thinkers, providing a lens through which attendees can connect with their roots.

Tokyo's Tadoku Festival:

Set to take place from November 23rd to 24th at the 本楼 (Honro) in Setagaya, Tokyo, the 別典祭 (Bettensai) promises a different flavor of book celebration. This festival will showcase a unique blend of literature, art, and entertainment. Aimed at reinventing the reading experience, attendees will enjoy a variety of activities from live podcast recordings to fashion shows inspired by Japanese textiles.

Matsuoka Seigo, the school’s headmaster and a celebrated editor and author, is excited to bring together a community of readers and writers for an enlightening exploration of books. The festival will also feature contributions from diverse clubs focusing on themes such as healthcare, photography, and traditional Japanese culture.

Both events are designed to be welcoming to all, encouraging families and friends to immerse themselves in cultural exchange through literature. The festivals promise not just to sell books, but to enlighten minds and foster community through shared stories and experiences.

Event Highlights:

1. Fukuoka Festival on November 2: A notable talk led by Tanaka Yuko, featuring engaging discussions on regional culture and literature.
2. Book Launch: Unveiling of Qten Genki Book '九', a collection of pivotal books selected from Matsuoka's bibliography.
3. Culminating Talks: Insightful discussions connecting regional literature with broader cultural dynamics.

4. Tokyo Festival on November 23-24: Emphasizing community engagement through interactions across various creative disciplines, the festival will include highlight events such as:
- Live Podcast: Hosted by popular podcast series, ほんのれん (Hon no Ren);
- Fashion Show: Featuring traditional and contemporary kimono designs;
- Interactive Sessions: Incorporating literature-themed games and discussions on medical narratives.
5. Diverse Participation: Free entry for non-students of ISIS Ed School, making it accessible for the general public.

Both events not only aim to foster a spirit of reading but also to engage the audience in a dialogue about the evolving form of literature in today's digital age. Participants will have the opportunity to browse through thousands of books while attending various workshops, and lectures designed to inspire creativity and thought.

Conclusion

With Matsuoka Seigo’s innovative approach as a guiding star, these festivals will redefine the reading experience, promoting an adventurous exploration of literature. As we approach the anniversaries and celebrations in these two vibrant cities, it is clear that the power of reading remains ever-relevant, captivating individuals across generations. Join us in November 2025 to celebrate books and the stories that connect us all!