FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cabinet Office, Government of Japan
January 7, 2026
JAPAN SUI COLLECTION in Kyoto
Bringing the Essence of Japanese Beauty and Tradition
to the WorldEvent Report – Kyoto State Guest House
The Cabinet Office, Government of Japan, hosted the event "JAPAN SUI COLLECTION in KYOTO” in Kyoto on November 14-15, 2025.
Japan is home to countless traditional crafts, regional specialties, and foods still little known abroad. To showcase these hidden treasures globally, the Government of Japan launched the JAPAN SUI COLLECTION project, spotlighting refined products countrywide.
As the kickoff, “JAPAN SUI COLLECTION in KYOTO” was held at Kyoto State Guest House, inviting leaders from Europe and other regionsNorth America to experience Japanese aesthetics through craft, cuisine, and performance.
Event Overview
- Dates:November 14-15, 2025
- Venue:Kyoto State Guest House
- Program:Approximately 60 traditional craftworks, creative cuisine, Noh and fashion performances
- Hosted by:The Cabinet Office of Japan
- In cooperation with:JUNKO KOSHINO
- Website:https://japan-sui-collection.go.jp/
About the Guest House
Built for foreign dignitaries, the Guest House blends into Kyoto’s historic landscape with irimoya roofs and sukiya-zukuri, showcasing top-level Japanese craftsmanship.
Craft Exhibition
Over 60 works—Wajima Nuri Lacquerware, Kutani Ware, and Hakata Dolls—were displayed under four themes: regional heritage, modern interpretation, contemporary design, and “wow” impact. Guests praised the refined techniques, natural materials, and strong regional identity.
Kutani Ware Colorful and Gold-painted Shoes 
Hakata Doll 
Wajima Nuri Lacquerware 
Guests admiring the delicate craftsmanship of the artworks
Performances & Cuisine
A fashion show by JUNKO KOSHINO and a Kyogen performance highlighted Japan’s performing arts.
The reception featured dishes made with premium ingredients like Yamagata wagyu and Oma tuna, prepared by Chef Hiroshi Nagashima, paired with selected sake.
A theme of harmonizing with traditional Japanese culture 
A performance in collaboration with Noh theatre 
JUNKO KOSHINO, who supervised the show 
A Kyogen performance presented on stage 
Hiroshi Nagashima, former executive chef of “Shisui,” the Japanese restaurant at Tsukiji Hongan-ji 
Yamagata Wagyu roast beef
Tea & Displays
An instructor from Mushakoji Senke conducted a tea ceremony; tea utensils—including Takayama Chasen whisks and regional pottery bowls—displayed Japan’s craft diversity.
Ikenobo ikebana and a bamboo installation by Tanabe Chikuunsai IV enriched the venue.
Takayama Chasen Tea Whisk 
Tea ceremony performed by the Mushakoji Senke school -
Ikebana installation by the Ikenobo school decorating the main entrance 
“Infinity,” bamboo artwork by Chikuunsai Tanabe IV
Organizer's Comments
Masaya Kitao, Councillor, Cabinet Secretariat, responded to reporters' questions on behalf of the organizer:
The JAPAN SUI COLLECTION aims to uncover Japan’s regional treasures and share them globally. "SUI" embodies traditional aesthetics and elegance. Beyond showcasing tradition, the project seeks to create new value through modern interpretations and collaborations while preserving original spirit and technique. Launching this initiative among guests familiar with both Western and Japanese cultures is a great honor.
Guest Voices
- “The Nishijin Ori bag is beautiful and functional.”
- “The cut-glass work shows extraordinary precision.”
- “Regional Japanese products stand out for natural materials and exceptional technique.”
- “One of the most authentic cultural events I’ve attended.”