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

Waseda University International House of Literature Crowdfunding Success

The Waseda International House of Literature, also known as the Haruki Murakami Library, has recently completed a successful crowdfunding campaign. Launched on November 10, 2025, the project titled "Connecting the World Through Literature and Jazz – Support the Haruki Murakami Library's Challenge" raised an impressive total of 9,121,000 JPY. The campaign concluded successfully after receiving overwhelming support from over 440 contributors.

Within just five days, the project reached its initial goal of 4 million JPY, and by the 39th day, it achieved a secondary goal of 7 million JPY. Ultimately, the campaign garnered 228% of its first goal amount. The funds raised are earmarked for the exciting upcoming Women in Jazz Festival, which includes expenses for concerts, talks, exhibitions, and international academic symposiums.

Support from Backers

This crowdfunding initiative received heartfelt messages from supporters, showcasing the community's dedication:

• - "Thank you always for maintaining such a cozy atmosphere at the library!"
• - "I hope the Haruki Murakami Library remains a welcoming place for everyone."
• - "I look forward to the exciting jazz events at Waseda!"
• - "My daughter informed me about a concert featuring an artist whose music I’ve cherished since she was young. I can't wait to enjoy the performance together!"
• - "Thank you for providing a wonderful library and intriguing events. I hope it continues to thrive!"

Project Overview

• - Project Name: Connecting the World Through Literature and Jazz – Support the Haruki Murakami Library's Challenge
• - Duration: November 10, 2025 - January 31, 2026 (83 days)
• - Total Raised: 9,121,000 JPY
• - Number of Supporters: 440 individuals
• - Use of Funds: Support for the Women in Jazz Festival, upcoming events, and exhibitions.
• - Website for More Information: Waseda University International House of Literature

About the Waseda International House of Literature

The Waseda International House of Literature, or Haruki Murakami Library, is a pioneering institution that houses an extensive collection of valuable materials donated by the renowned author Haruki Murakami. These resources enable readers and researchers from around the world to explore the realms of Murakami's literature, international literature, and translation studies. The library aims to facilitate academic research while promoting a space for cultural exchange.

What sets this library apart is its diverse programming, which includes talks, readings, artistic performances, and exhibitions that foster the intersection of various cultural perspectives. The foundation of its activities is rooted in Murakami's vision for the library to be a vibrant venue for international literary and cultural dialogue. Events like "Authors Alive!" and music performances, such as "Campus Live," have become staples, drawing many participants.

The Vision and Challenges Ahead

The Waseda International House of Literature has frequently hosted free events to promote literary and musical appreciation among students and the local community. However, these initiatives are financially supported through donations rather than the university's budget, which is allocated for education and research.

To maintain and sustain the scale and frequency of their offerings, the library estimates an annual budget of around 30 million JPY. As such, continuous support is critical for their future endeavors. This crowdfunding campaign seeks to broaden awareness of their mission and encourage support from a wider audience.

The Women in Jazz Festival

Following this successful campaign, the library will host the Women in Jazz Festival scheduled for 2026. This festival highlights the historical and present-day contributions of female figures in the jazz music genre, providing a platform to reflect on women's rights and freedom of expression through music and literature.

Key Festival Events:

• - Concert & Talk: "Junko Onishi × Mari Yamazaki: Celebrating Freedom Through Music and Art"

- Date: March 3, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM
- Location: Waseda University Okuma Auditorium

• - Exhibition: "Black Women's Literature and Jazz - Tracing Black Feminism"

- Dates: Ongoing until April 19, 2026
- Location: 2nd Floor Exhibition Room, Waseda International House of Literature

This concert event will feature renowned jazz pianist Junko Onishi and author Mari Yamazaki in a collaborative performance, representing the highlight of the festival. Notably, there will be free seats for students to ensure access to genuine cultural experiences.

Through this cross-cultural initiative, the Waseda International House of Literature continues to strengthen its role as a hub for international literary and artistic exchange, enriching the community through its unwavering commitment to the arts.