#Japan #Shiga Prefecture #Cosei Magazine #Nagahama

Discovering Honest Craftsmanship in Shiga: Cosei Nagahama Edition

On June 28, the second issue of the free publication "Cosei" was released, focusing on the vibrant craftsmanship of Nagahama, a city in Shiga Prefecture. This magazine, dedicated to honest production and local artisans, is getting distributed across various establishments in Shiga, as well as in bookstores in Osaka and Tokyo.

The Journey of Cosei

"Cosei" was launched back in January 2024, and its first edition celebrated the resilience of farmers and workshops in Higashiomi City, highlighting their sincere connection with nature. The magazine resonated deeply with readers, gathering heartfelt feedback such as, "I knew about the producers, but I didn’t know their stories. This reading has made me love them even more,” and “This has motivated my desire to move to Shiga.” This response has been incredibly encouraging for us.

Cosei has also been recognized with the Kengo Kuma Special Award and Excellence Award at the Japan Regional Content Awards 2024, emphasizing its commitment to portraying regional culture and craftsmanship.

Features of the Nagahama Edition

In this latest edition, we aim to transform the narrative from merely sharing stories to genuinely experiencing them. Nagahama was chosen for its rich community and the vibrant spirit of its local creators such as shop owners and artisans who engage in business while living in the heart of the city. We broaden our definition of "creators" beyond just those who manufacture products – we're also spotlighting those generating the essence of community and daily interactions.

Our focus shifts towards the theme of "business" while maintaining the essence of craftsmanship, showcasing local perspectives through interviews. We explored various community initiatives, such as returnees, family business successions, and local startups, unearthing the backgrounds behind their choices and their genuine connection with living and working in this land.

The essence of rooting oneself in the community and nurturing work and relationships through connections with others is portrayed in raw and empowering stories. As we delve into these narratives, this edition challenges us to reflect on the core of living and working within a community.

Meet the Local Craftsmen of Nagahama

In this edition, we introduce four craftspeople whose dedication is profoundly inspiring:

• - Nishikawa Foods / Futabaya: A longstanding local shop in Nagahama, they have been providing essential food items like vegetables, fruits, seafood, and ready-to-eat meals while cherishing relationships with local customers and producers.

• - Mitate Farm: This farm minimizes pesticide and chemical fertilizer use while tapping into the abundant freshwater resources of Hokuriku. They focus on fostering connections among individuals and conduct community workshops as part of their mission.

• - Horebore Shiga: An online shop with the concept of enriching lives through Shiga's products, Horebore Shiga offers unique items and stories, emphasizing the narratives behind each product.

• - Happy Taro Brewery: Specializing in crafting 'Doburoku' (unrefined sake) using an array of ingredients, this brewery develops a diverse range of fermented foods, including malt, amazake, and miso. They actively host workshops to engage people with fermentation culture.

About Cosei

• - Publication Date: June 28, 2025
• - Page Count: 40 pages
• - Price: Free
• - Content: Interviews with four local creators, featuring “Honest Craftsmanship in Nagahama” insights.
• - Distribution Points: Shiga Prefectural Office, Lake School, Kolmio in the Museum (Shiga Prefectural Art Museum), local eateries, and select bookstores in Osaka and Tokyo.
• - Follow Us: Check out our official Instagram for behind-the-scenes stories and more about local creators.

Call for Participation

Cosei is looking for shops and establishments willing to showcase our magazine. We hope to collaborate with spaces where community members and visitors can easily access this publication. Whether you're a café, a bookstore, or any other type of venue, your support can help share the essence of Shiga’s culture through this magazine. Contact us via direct message on Instagram to express your interest.

In summary, Cosei is not just a magazine, but a vessel of local storytelling, aiming to bridge connections and celebrate the craftsmanship that fuels the spirit of Shiga Prefecture. Join us in nurturing the stories and talents of our region, contributing to a living narrative of honest production and dedication.