Japanese Crafts Gain Popularity Among Haneda Airport Tourists

Traditional Japanese crafts are experiencing a surge in popularity among tourists, with their intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors drawing the attention of many foreign visitors. A specialty shop within Tokyo's Haneda Airport, showcasing an array of these traditional crafts passed down through generations, evidently reflects this rising interest.

With the weak yen, the appreciation for such crafts has only heightened, making it more affordable for overseas tourists to purchase these unique items. The Japan Mastery Collection (JMC), a specialty shop that opened its doors last December at Terminal 3 in Haneda airport, has observed numerous tourists stopping by to admire their extensive selection of traditional Japanese crafts.

Among the displayed products, Sanuki Kagari Temari stands out as particularly captivating. It is a handcrafted ball from Kagawa Prefecture that features intricately woven patterns made using colorful thread. Also highly sought after are Tsugaru Vidro, glassworks from Aomori Prefecture boasting vivid hues; Kutaniyaki, traditional porcelain from Ishikawa Prefecture; and Ochoko sake cups adorned with gold leaf, also originating from Ishikawa Prefecture.

Japan Airport Terminal Co. reported that compared to last year’s figures, there was an incredible increase in international travelers who flew into or departed from Haneda airport during fiscal 2023 ending March this year, soaring up to 10.37 million, which is about 3.4 times higher than before! Interestingly enough, foreign visitors make up approximately 95 percent of shoppers at JMC.

Yoshie Nakamura of the Haneda Future Research Institute operates JMC and commented on this phenomenon, saying, "There are many attractive crafts across Japan, but some have been left piled up in closets because not many places sell them.” She explained her goal, stating, “We want to help craftsmen, even if only slightly.”

Officials in Kagawa are optimistic that the global recognition of Sanuki Kagari Temari, largely due to JMC's efforts, will boost tourism in the region. An official responsible for developing sales channels at the Kagawa prefectural government expressed optimism, saying, "We hope that foreign nationals who get to know Kagawa and its capital, Takamatsu, through our local crafts will visit the prefecture and city."

As Japanese traditional crafts continue to attract attention on a global scale, it is clear that these timeless art forms offer more than just aesthetic value. They provide a tangible connection to Japan's rich cultural history and heritage. Their intricate designs and detailed craftsmanship tell stories of generations past while continuing to evolve with each new generation.

The increasing popularity of these traditional crafts among tourists not only boosts the economy but also aids in the preservation of these precious art forms by ensuring their transmission and appreciation by future generations. This trend exemplifies the global dissemination of culture through artistic expression, promoting mutual understanding among diverse societies and safeguarding traditions in the contemporary world.