Amin Abbas

ABU DHABI: Takumi Next: Essence of Japan, the globe-trotting showcase of Japanese skill and craftsmanship has arrived in Abu Dhabi. 

Launched by Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the project features a pop-up store at the Ocha Cafe Sakura that launched on Dec. 14 and will run until Feb. 28 2023.

The Japanese Ambassador to the UAE, ISOMATA Akio attended the opening ceremony of TAKUMI NEXT pop-up store and he was pleased and praised the quality of the handcrafted goods that are being featured at the Ocha Cafe Sakura.

This project introduces the new generation of Japanese artisans, as they use their rich cultural heritage and strong background in traditional techniques to utilize the local resources efficiently and sustainably, producing handcrafted goods of exceptional quality and artistry, to answer the needs of the modern world with a distinct Japanese spirit.

“JETRO has always been at the forefront of supporting Japanese small and medium businesses in their global expansions and Abu Dhabi was a natural selection for us to launch Takumi Next in the Middle East as it has quietly positioned itself as the middle east’s art and cultural center over the years” Takahisa Ota said, Business Development Director of JETRO Dubai.

“This edition features 10 curated products that run the spectrum of Japan’s esteemed crafts: from paper, ceramics, fabrics, to advanced metal and glass making and more. Through this selection, we hope to present a vision of the future of Japanese traditional crafts” he added.

“The term ‘Takumi’ refers to an ‘artisan’ or ‘craftsman’ in Japanese. As social norms and lifestyles evolve, we ponder the future of traditional crafts and the existential role of craftsmen through a fine selection of everyday goods. Through the lens of these craftsmen, you can get a glimpse into the inner workings of a nation, Japan’s history and the industries that drive its economy” added Momoka Shibata, Digital Marketing Analyst at JETRO.

Takumi Next was initially launched in 2019 and since its introduction has helped over 500 artists reach out to global markets through pop up stores and online sale and marketing platforms. For this, JETRO has established an online system by which crafts producers can access buyers and seek advice from experts in reaching out to overseas markets.

This edition features cutting edge technology provided by AWL, Inc. which includes special AI monitoring tools that will capture visitors interests and provide craftsmen with deep insights into buyers’ behavior to make demand forecasts more accurate and reliable.

Products on display will be sold and include Elegant artisanal coffee pots made from heat resistant borosilicate glass individually hand-blown by master glass makers. Another highlight product is a Tokoname Teapot, made by Shun-en who is a well-known artist who has a unique technique of openwork carving, and recognized as the best in Japan (Tea brewed in them is said to have an enhanced, sweeter and milder flavor due to the delicate clay strainer that ensures the pure flavor of the tea is not affected by using metal strainers). Also, on display are “happi” coats which were originally considered as a traditional Japanese costume but now are being introduced as part of the everyday wear and is made out of carefully selected high-quality cotton fabrics designed with traditional Japanese patterns.

For more information on products and craftsmen please visit: https://www.jetro.go.jp/en/eccj/takumi_next/abu_dhabi.html