Attended the "Ōkawa no Takumi" Exhibition, Showcasing Masterful Craftsmanship and Expertise
Ōkawa City boasts a woodworking industry with approximately 490 years of history and tradition. To honor the skilled artisans who uphold this heritage, the city established the Ōkawa no Takumi (Master Artisans of Ōkawa) certification system.
Currently, an exhibition showcasing the works of these certified master artisans is being held at the Keigo Shrine Office Building in Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City. This marks the first time the exhibition is being held outside of Ōkawa City. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to experience the exquisite craftsmanship up close.
What is the Ōkawa no Takumi Certification System?
The Ōkawa no Takumi certification system was introduced in 2007 to recognize artisans with exceptional skills and expertise in the woodworking industry. Its purpose is not only to honor their achievements but also to contribute to the preservation and transmission of their craft.
Certified Skills Categories:
- Furniture manufacturing
- Architectural fittings manufacturing
- Other woodworking-related fields
Eligibility Requirements:
To be certified as an Ōkawa no Takumi, artisans must meet the following five criteria:
- Possess outstanding craftsmanship.
- Demonstrate deep expertise and integrity befitting a master.
- Have contributed significantly to industrial development.
- Be expected to play a role in training future artisans and engaging in social activities.
- Have lived or worked in Ōkawa City for at least five years.
Ōkawa Furniture and Ōkawa no Takumi
Ōkawa is one of Japan’s most renowned furniture-producing regions, home to approximately 100 furniture manufacturers as of 2018, each specializing in different areas.
Ōkawa Furniture can be categorized into three main types:
- Mass-production factories for affordable furniture
- High-quality mass-production factories
- Workshops run by highly trained artisans
Ōkawa Furniture Dot Com primarily handles products from high-quality mass-production factories. However, this exhibition exclusively features works crafted by the highly skilled artisans from specialized workshops.
These master artisans create one-of-a-kind pieces and custom-made luxury furniture, showcasing their advanced techniques and expertise. Even at Ōkawa Furniture Dot Com, we often rely on these workshops for custom and high-end furniture, which are widely recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship.
Exhibition Highlights
1. Masterpieces by Certified Artisans
Visitors can admire a variety of works created by the Ōkawa no Takumi artisans, showcasing their extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic beauty.
2. History of Ōkawa’s Woodworking Industry
Ōkawa's woodworking heritage dates back about 490 years to its founder, Kumenosuke Enotsu. The exhibition provides insights into the industry's evolution and the traditions that have been passed down through generations.
3. Display of Artisan Tools
A master artisan’s workshop is filled with specialized tools, and the choice and handling of these tools play a crucial role in creating exceptional works. In addition to the finished pieces, the exhibition also highlights the tools used by the artisans.
Event Details
- Dates: January 24 (Fri) – February 2 (Sun), 2025
- Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closes at 5:00 PM on the last day)
- Venue: Keigo Shrine Office Building, 5th Floor (2-2-20 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City)
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Access:
- 1-minute walk from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station on the Nishitetsu Tenjin Ōmuta Line
- 9-minute walk from Tenjin Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Airport Line
- 3-minute walk from Tenjin Minami Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line
- 1-minute walk from the Nishitetsu Bus stop "Tenjin Keigo Shrine Mitsukoshi Mae"
- Admission: Free
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Reservation: Not required
(Please note that there is no parking at the venue. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or nearby coin-operated parking lots.)
Conclusion
This exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience the supreme craftsmanship and artistry of Ōkawa no Takumi artisans. Visitors can explore their exquisite works, gain insight into their techniques, and even observe the tools they use.
Additionally, workshops will be held where attendees can experience traditional woodworking techniques firsthand.
For Ōkawa Furniture Dot Com, this event is an excellent chance to appreciate the skills of the master artisans who contribute to our custom furniture production.
We highly encourage you to visit and immerse yourself in the world of Ōkawa no Takumi!
