Japan House London invites audiences to explore Japan’s diverse regional cultures through its Spotlight on Local Japan series this autumn. This unique programme offers a rare opportunity to learn about the rich traditions of prefectures such as Wakayama, Toyama, Aichi, Shiga, and Tokyo. The series will include engaging talks, workshops, and performances, showcasing aspects of Japanese culture that are rarely available in the UK. Visitors will have the chance to immerse themselves in authentic Japanese crafts, food traditions, and festival culture.
Wakayama Prefecture: Umeshu Liqueur and Umeboshi Pickles
On Saturday 12 October, Japan House London will shine a spotlight on Wakayama Prefecture, a region famous for its ume (Japanese plum or apricot). A special talk will explore the cultivation and cultural significance of ume in Wakayama, followed by a tasting session featuring umeshu (plum liqueur) and umeboshi (salt-pickled plums). Guests will also have the unique opportunity to participate in umeshu-making workshops on 12 and 13 October, where they can create their own batch of this traditional Japanese liqueur using ume from Wakayama.
Toyama Prefecture: Lacquerware and Raden Inlay
In early November, Japan House London will introduce audiences to the exquisite craftsmanship of Toyama Prefecture. On Wednesday 6 November, participants will be able to join a hands-on workshop where they can decorate chopsticks with raden (mother-of-pearl inlay), a traditional technique that is central to Toyama’s craft heritage. This will be followed by a talk and demonstration on Takaoka shikki (lacquerware), providing insight into Toyama’s renowned artisanship.
Aichi Prefecture: The Art of Futon-Making
From 14-17 November, Aichi Prefecture will take centre stage at Japan House London with a series of talks and workshops on traditional futon-making. On 14 November, fifth-generation futon craftsman Niwa Takuya will give a live-streamed talk about the history, cultural significance, and modern use of futons. Following the talk, participants will have the chance to create their own zabuton (small cushion) in workshops on 15 and 16 November, with a final demonstration session on 17 November.
Shiga Prefecture: The Ōtsu Matsuri Festival
Shiga Prefecture’s rich festival tradition will come to life at Japan House London on 29 and 30 November with performances and talks about the Ōtsu Matsuri Festival. On 29 November, visitors can enjoy a lantern display and pop-up performances of hayashi (festival music) outside Japan House London. The following day, 30 November, there will be several performances of hayashi festival music, accompanied by introductions to traditional instruments such as the kane (percussion instrument).
Tokyo Prefecture: Discovering Craftsmanship
In early December, the focus will turn to Tokyo Prefecture, showcasing the lesser-known crafts of the capital. A series of events will introduce audiences to Tokyo’s 42 designated traditional crafts, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant and often overlooked artisanal scene. These workshops and demonstrations will provide a unique perspective on Tokyo as a city of craft and creativity.
Event Details and Booking Information
Tickets for all events are available through the Japan House London website, with releases typically occurring 2-3 weeks in advance. Subscribers to the Japan House London newsletter and followers on social media will be among the first to hear when bookings open.
The Spotlight on Local Japan series is supported by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), with the goal of celebrating the rich cultural diversity of Japan’s regions. The programme encompasses a variety of fields, including art, craft, food, innovation, and technology, providing audiences with a deeper understanding of Japan’s local traditions and creative industries.
