Explore the 2024 GO FOR KOGEI Craft Arts Festival: A Celebration of Tradition, Innovation, and Cultural Heritage

Dates: September 14 - October 20, 2024

Location: Hokuriku Region, Japan - Iwase area in Toyama; and Higashiyama area (Kanazawa City), Ishikawa

Embark on a journey through Japan’s rich craft heritage at the 2024 GO FOR KOGEI Craft Arts Festival, where the timeless artistry of the Hokuriku region takes center stage. Spanning the picturesque landscapes of Toyama and Ishikawa Prefectures, this festival offers an immersive experience where traditional craftsmanship harmonizes with contemporary innovation.

Craft and Art: Philosophies for Life

This year’s festival revolves around the theme “Craft and Art: Philosophies for Life,” exploring the profound connections between craft and everyday living. The exhibition challenges the notion of craft as mere ornamentation, revealing how these objects can transcend their traditional roles to become integral elements of our living spaces. The festival presents a nuanced exploration of contemporary craft and art, highlighting the philosophies that inspire these creative practices.

The exhibition unfolds across two distinct areas: the historic Iwase Area in Toyama, renowned for its rich heritage and distinctive architecture, and the newly included Higashiyama Area in Kanazawa, a district deeply rooted in tradition. In Iwase, site-specific installations interact with the local landscape, offering visitors a unique experience where craft, architecture, and nature converge. Meanwhile, in Higashiyama, the focus shifts to the integration of craft objects with the rhythm of daily life, influenced by elements like light, weather, and sound, thereby acquiring new social value and meaning.

A Festival Rooted in Nature

The festival’s connection to the natural beauty of the Hokuriku region is unmistakable. Set against a backdrop of majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and serene coastlines, GO FOR KOGEI offers an experience where the artistry of the land is as much a part of the festival as the crafts themselves. The venues, ranging from historic workshops to contemporary galleries, are carefully chosen to highlight the harmonious relationship between nature and art.

Visitors can explore how local materials—such as the region’s rich clay, fine woods, and pure water—are transformed into exquisite works of art. Each piece is a reflection of the environment from which it was born, showcasing the deep connection between the craftspeople and the land they call home.

Engage with the Artisans

GO FOR KOGEI is an opportunity to step beyond the role of an observer and become an active participant in the world of Japanese crafts. The festival offers numerous ways to connect with the artisans themselves, whether through hands-on workshops, intimate tea ceremonies, or casual conversations in their studios. This is your chance to learn from the masters, gaining insights into the techniques and philosophies that define their work.

Among the many artists’ exhibits you will find ceramics by Shakunaga Gaku that deceive the eye into believing they consist of rubber, wood, or cork; spectacularly intricate patterns in molten glass by Yasuda Taizo; and Kakinuma Koji’s modern graffiti-esque take on Japanese calligraphy.

Considering the region’s standing as one of the top sake-producing areas of Japan, it would be remiss not to visit the ‘Metal Meets Sake: Complimentary Standing Bar’, or perhaps stick to more familiar flavors at the Kobo Brew Pub where you can enjoy the vibrant paintings of Tatehana Noritaka.

Planning Your Visit

The 2024 GO FOR KOGEI Craft Arts Festival is an invitation to immerse yourself in the artistry and culture of Japan’s Hokuriku region. Whether you’re an avid collector, a cultural enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of Japanese crafts, this festival promises an experience that is both enriching and inspiring. For more information, visit the GO FOR KOGEI website.

If you’re considering a visit to the GO FOR KOGEI festival or wish to explore other cultural events in Japan, our team is here to assist. We offer tailored travel plans, exclusive access to workshops and events, and personalized itineraries that will make your visit unforgettable. Reach out today to begin planning your journey into the heart of Japan’s craft heritage!