CRAFTSPEOPLE OF KYOTO
THE MAKERS
They’re redefining traditional crafts with new practices and techniques. Now, follow along as we meet some of the most inspiring makers of Kyoto, Japan.
SEASON 1 FINALE
THE MAKERS ROUNDTABLE
A group of Kyoto craftspeople discuss their traditional techniques and skills.
A DEEP DIVE INTO JAPANESE CRAFTSMANSHIP
Taisuke Nakamura, Head of INFINITI Design, sat down with six master makers to delve into Japanese craftsmanship's past, present, and future. Here, Tatsuyuki Kosuga, owner of the Kohchosai Kosuga company, explains how he feels traditional crafts are now being recognised as tools that we use every day, which has created new opportunities.
THE JAPANESE AESTHETIC
"Building a car in Japan is like challenging the world of cars that existed before. In a way, that's what motivates people that work in this industry, and I think the INFINITI brand embodies this spirit,” said Taisuke Nakamura, Head of INFINITI Design. The roundtable discussion included a conversation on what defines the Japanese aesthetic and why its innovation is like no other.
"“There is always modernity in each era. Individuality is always what makes up the modernity of that era.”
– Eriko Horiki, Washi Paper Craftswoman, Kyoto
EP 1 - TEA CADDY
Takahiro Yagi’s family-run workshop uses ancient Japanese design practices, such as shitate and mitate, to bring his traditional tea caddy creations to life.
EP 2 - METAL KNITTING
At the sight of his tattoos, Toru Tsuji was snubbed by his peers. But like his unique aesthetic, Tsuji-san is using unconventional methods to help his craft thrive.
EP 3 - WOODEN BUCKETS
He stepped out alone to forge his own craft. Now, Shuji Nakagawa’s mix of contemporary and modern design aims to redefine Japan’s very definition of beauty.
EP 4 - WASHI PAPER
Horiki Eriko left a career in banking to become an expert washi maker, a traditional form of Japanese paper-making that dates back over 1,300 years.
EP5 - CERAMICS
Hosai Matsbayashi is the head potter at the 400-year-old Asahiyaki pottery in Uji – Japan’s tea culture capital.
EP 6 - BAMBOO
Tatsuyuki Kosuga used to hang out with biker crews. Nowadays he’s a leading craftsman. He creates everyday objects from natural materials that improve with use and age.
EP 7 – THE MAKERS ROUNDTABLE
The season finale. This episode serves as a wrap up to Season 1 of the Makers series. It features all six Kyoto craftspeople in deep conversation with Taisuke Nakamura, Head of INFINITI Design, as they explore modern Japanese craftsmanship, timeless beauty, and more. Watch the highlights here, or experience the full-length piece on YouTube.
QX60
Hand-stitched leather seats, Japanese inspired origami grilles. Learn why this is our most versatile three-row SUV ever.
