A New Window to Japanese Culture

CERAMICS, TEXTILES, handmade paper, and metalwork—Japan’s traditional arts and crafts are a big draw. But it can be hard for visitors to know where to look—and harder still to navigate the language barrier. Enter Dento, a new company that aims to open those doors. It’s supported in part by the Kyoto-based travel agency Windows to Japan, whose founder and CEO Avi Lugasi saw the need for a more equitable relationship between master craftspeople and the travellers keen to meet them. “One of the big issues has been, if a visitor is there talking with the craftsman, that takes the concentration out of what they’re doing,” Lugasi says.

The solution? Dento compensates the professionals for their time, and runs an online shop to expand the market for these one-of-a-kind goods. There is also a foundation that recruits and pays apprentices. “We’re supporting the next generation that will carry on these crafts,” Lugasi says.

Images courtesy of Dento/Windows to Japan.

Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.

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Written By

Elaine Glusac