Bridging Generations: Kyushu’s Craftsmanship Meets Contemporary Design
Fukuoka City is set to host “CRAFT DESIGN MEETS KYUSHU – Traditional Crafts that Color Life -,” an innovative exhibition running from February 17th to February 23rd, 2026, at ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. This event, spearheaded by the “Bank of Craft” project of J&J Business Creation Co., Ltd., aims to breathe new life into Kyushu’s rich heritage of traditional crafts by fostering collaborations with modern creators. The exhibition seeks to transform these often-perceived “expensive and special” items into accessible pieces that seamlessly integrate into contemporary living.
The “Bank of Craft” initiative is dedicated to the preservation and evolution of traditional crafts, bridging the gap between historical artistry and modern sensibilities. For this exhibition, 12 traditional craft businesses representing 10 craft categories from all seven prefectures of Kyushu have partnered with eight dynamic creators, including designers, artists, illustrators, and calligraphers. Their collective efforts have resulted in approximately 40 co-created works. These collaborations saw creators visiting craft workshops, engaging in deep dialogue, and gaining a profound understanding of not only the techniques but also the history and cultural narratives embedded in each craft.
A Glimpse into the Co-Created Masterpieces
The exhibition highlights a fascinating array of works where ancient techniques meet fresh perspectives. These pieces are designed to show how traditional crafts can be both beautiful and practical for daily use.
Hakata-ori (Fukuoka) × Fashion Designer Asaka Yuri
Hakata-ori, a traditional silk weaving from Fukuoka known for its intricate patterns, finds a new expression through the collaboration with fashion designer Asaka Yuri. Their co-created knit bags ingeniously blend the continuous rhythms of Hakata-ori patterns with knit structures. This fusion of weaving and knitting techniques results in a unique texture and presence, creating a casual yet elegant bag that complements both everyday attire and traditional kimonos. It’s a testament to how traditional textiles can be reimagined for modern fashion.
Nabeshima Dantsu (Saga) × Designer Masahiko Kajima
From Saga Prefecture, Nabeshima Dantsu, a type of hand-knotted rug, has been transformed through a collaboration with designer Masahiko Kajima. Their project, named “Nemuru” (meaning “to sleep”), introduces small rugs designed for tables, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Inspired by the serene evening and night landscapes of Hamano-ura in Saga, these rugs offer a novel way to incorporate Nabeshima Dantsu into daily life, inviting a comforting presence into modern homes.
Other notable collaborations include Yame Lanterns (Fukuoka) with artist Cigarette-burns, Beppu Bamboo Craft (Oita) with illustrator Imura, Kodai-yaki (Kumamoto) with graphic artist WOK22, Komatsubara-yaki (Miyazaki) with artist Persicaria microcephala, and Oshima Tsumugi (Kagoshima) with calligrapher Shofu Koyama. More details on these captivating works are being progressively revealed on the official website and Instagram of Bank of Craft.
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Official Website: https://bank-of-craft.jp/
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Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bank_of_craft
Experience the Crafts: Workshops, Sake, and AI Guides
The exhibition is designed as an immersive experience, with numerous pieces of Okawa furniture from Fukuoka Prefecture arranged to recreate real-life settings like living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and Japanese-style rooms. This thoughtful presentation allows visitors to envision how these craft pieces can enrich their own daily environments. All exhibited items are available for purchase, offered at prices suitable for everyday use.
Unique Sake Bottles Featuring Co-Created Designs
In a unique offering, seven types of original sake bottles featuring the co-created designs from the craft and creator collaborations will be available for purchase. Produced in cooperation with six Kyushu sake breweries, these limited-edition bottles (approximately 30 of each type) will also be available for tasting at the venue. Additionally, a special original shochu bottle, “Ai-Ranbiki,” developed by Nishinippon Shimbun Co., Ltd. in collaboration with Aimoriyama Moriyama Kasuri Kobo (Kurume Kasuri) and Ebisu Shuzo Co., Ltd., will be sold.
Hands-On Workshops for All Ages
Visitors can also participate in a variety of workshops led by the craftspeople themselves, offering a direct connection to the artistry of Fukuoka’s traditional crafts, including Hakata dolls, Hakata-ori, and Kurume Kasuri.
Fukuoka City Traditional Craft Promotion Committee Produced Workshops:
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Hakata Doll Painting: February 21 (Sat), 22 (Sun) 15:30-17:30. Fee: 3,300 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 12 people per session. Application: At the special venue register.
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Hakata-ori Stamp Case Making: February 21 (Sat) 13:00-14:00. Fee: 2,200 yen (tax included). Duration: 30 minutes. Capacity: 10 people. Application: At the special venue register.
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Hakata-ori Kaleidoscope Making: February 22 (Sun) 13:00-14:00. Fee: 2,200 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 10 people. Application: At the special venue register.
Sakata Orimono / Aimoriyama Moriyama Kasuri Kobo Produced Workshops:
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Kurume Kasuri × Leather Coaster Making: February 17 (Tue), 19 (Thu) 11:30~ / 13:00~ / 15:00~. Fee: 1,430 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 4 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
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Kurume Kasuri × Yame Sudare Cutlery Case Making: February 17 (Tue) 11:30~ / 13:00~ / 15:00~. Fee: 3,300 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 4 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
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Kurume Kasuri Pot Holder Making: February 18 (Wed), 20 (Fri) 11:30~ / 15:00~. Fee: 4,180 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Capacity: 4 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
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Kurume Kasuri Knot Bag Making: February 18 (Wed), 19 (Thu) 11:30~ / 15:00~. Fee: 5,500 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes. Capacity: 4 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
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Kurume Kasuri Stool Making: February 21 (Sat), 22 (Sun), 23 (Mon/Holiday) 11:30~ / 13:00~ / 15:00~ / 17:00~. Fee: 11,000 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 2 people per session (4 on Feb 23). Application: DM via Instagram.
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Kurume Kasuri Hairband Making: February 20 (Fri) 11:30~, 23 (Mon/Holiday) 11:30~ / 15:00~. Fee: 4,950 yen (tax included). Duration: 2 hours. Capacity: 4 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
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Daruma Plant Dyeing (Aimoriyama Moriyama Kasuri Kobo): February 23 (Mon/Holiday) 13:00~ / 15:00~. Fee: 4,400 yen (tax included). Duration: 1 hour. Capacity: 6 people per session. Application: DM via Instagram.
Exploring Original Craftsmanship and Digital Innovation
Beyond the collaborative pieces, the exhibition will feature and sell a wide array of original works from participating traditional craft businesses, including Hakata-ori, Kurume Kasuri, Yame Lanterns, Okawa Kumiko, Nabeshima Dantsu, Hasami-yaki, Beppu Bamboo Craft, Komatsubara-yaki, and Oshima Tsumugi. These displays offer a comprehensive look at the individual brilliance of each craft.
Adding a modern twist, an interactive AI character will be present on digital signage, ready to answer visitors’ questions about the exhibition pieces and Kyushu’s traditional crafts. This blend of ancient art and cutting-edge technology truly exemplifies the spirit of the event.
Event Overview
- Event Name: CRAFT DESIGN MEETS KYUSHU – Traditional Crafts that Color Life –
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Dates: February 17 (Tuesday) – February 23 (Monday/Holiday), 2026
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Location: ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 1F Special Venue (1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City)
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Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
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Organizer: J&J Business Creation Co., Ltd. “Bank of Craft” Project
The Future of Kawaii Crafts: A Global Perspective
The “CRAFT DESIGN MEETS KYUSHU” exhibition is more than just a display of beautiful objects; it is a vibrant declaration of how Japan’s profound cultural heritage can evolve and thrive in the modern world. By infusing traditional crafts with contemporary design sensibilities, the “Bank of Craft” project is not only creating new revenue streams for artisans but also ensuring the continuity of these invaluable skills. “It’s truly inspiring to witness how these ancient techniques are finding a new heartbeat in modern designs, making them approachable and beloved by a new generation,” a visitor might muse while examining a meticulously crafted piece.
This initiative serves as a powerful model for how traditional arts can maintain their authenticity while appealing to global tastes, proving that the ‘kawaii’ (lovable and charming) essence of Japanese craftsmanship can transcend borders. As these reimagined crafts find their way into homes and hearts worldwide, they will surely contribute to a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and a sustainable future for its artisans.
