This website, "Sokunin Koji," introduces artisans participating in a program titled Innovative Globalization of Kyoto's Heritage Industries, together with the artisans' approaches to traditional culture and industries, and products created by these experts. It is my sincere hope that through text, images and video, visitors to this site will enjoy time-honored cultural aspects fostered in Kyoto and will learn more about the activities of these young artisans in innovating traditional businesses.
Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital, in addition to nourishing the high-end culture of court nobles and priests, has long nourished as well the culture of the town folks and artisans who have developed various traditional industries and businesses. Because of these artisans and their activities, Kyoto remains vivid and vibrant. The artisans' culture and their products will surely enrich your daily life. I hope that you will enjoy cultural businesses developed in Kyoto.