Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
1
August 27, 2015
The Wonder 500™ Project Management Office
(Revamp Corporation)
TOKYO, August 27, 2015 — The products selected for inclusion in The Wonder 500™, an exclusive
collection of goods, foods and travel experiences discovered in local Japan, were announced today in
Tokyo. Since May 15, 2015, the Wonder 500TM Project Management Office has been moving forward
with the project, which is designed to select “local products that are the pride and joy of Japan but not
yet known around the world” and introduce them to global markets. The project has discovered
“hometown specialties” from around Japan and will promote them leveraging an innovative
coordinated approach, and is part of the effort to invigorate local economies based on the “Cool Japan”
approach under the Comprehensive Strategy for Region-Building.
The Wonder 500™ includes five-hundred carefully selected
goods, foods, and travel experiences from all forty-seven of Japan’s
prefectures, chosen based on two criteria: “items which convey the
refined taste and persistent passion of their maker” and “innovative
items which combine Japan’s unmatched craftsmanship and services
supported by traditional Japanese values.” The selected products will
be promoted around the world.
For the product selection process, about 30 professional
“connoisseurs” with expert knowledge of product branding and strong
networks with overseas sales channels were appointed as “Producers”
and dispatched nationwide to discover and recommend highly
appealing local products that are not yet known outside Japan. In
addition, a public application process was also held to identify other
outstanding products outside the areas or categories of the Producers’
expertise,
The 500 products chosen as the pride and joy of local Japan were selected from a total of
1,900 candidates, comprising 600 recommended by the Producers and 1,300 identified in the public
— A METI Subsidy Project for “Hometown Specialty” Discovery and Coordinated Promotional Activities —
「Ｔｈ Ｗ ｄ 500™
Announcing 500 products discovered and selected from local Japan!
An exclusive collection of Japan's finest goods, foods, and travel experiences
The pride and joy of local Japan, chosen to delight the world
The Wonder 500™
https://thewonder500.com/
2
application process. They include 342 products in the goods category, 148 foods, and 10 travel
experiences.
All the products will be publicized on the on the official website(https://thewonder500.com/). Coming up next in Japan is a special exhibition of all 500 products to be held September 2–4
(Wed.–Fri.) at the 80th Tokyo International Gift Show Autumn 2015 at Tokyo Big Sight. Then, as one
part of the 32nd Month of Traditional Crafts of the National Citizen’s Congress to be held November 6–
8 (Fri.–Sun.) in Takaoka City in Toyama Prefecture at the national treasure Takaoka-san Zuiryu-ji
Temple, the 342 products from the goods category will be exhibited. Following that, seminars on
overseas development, networking events, and exhibits of the selected products will be held with the
business owners in local areas around Japan.
Outside Japan, an exhibit will be held September 5–12 (Sat.–Sat.) in Paris, France during
PARIS DESIGN WEEK 2015. In addition, about 200 of the products will be featured at 10 of the
best-known select shops in Paris participating in the Design Week, where they will be on display and
available for purchase, as well as at tasting and sampling events held at 4 bars and restaurants in the
city. Then, in November, in a tie-up with the global information magazine MONOCLE, which is
published in London, planning is underway to display selected products for sale in MONOCLE’s
directly-managed lifestyle shops—called MONOCLE SHOPS—in six major world cities. In other plans,
events and business meetings will be held in Taipei, Hong Kong, and New York, PR activities will be
undertaken in collaboration with major media in each country, and The Wonder 500TM Story Book will
be distributed. The aim of all of these activities is not only to introduce this exclusive collection of
products, but also to convey the stories behind them persuasively global markets.
By discovering Japan’s most appealing local products that are not yet known around the
world and promoting them through activities like those described above, The Wonder 500™ project
will support the network-building, PR and marketing needed to develop effective new sales channels
outside Japan.
The Wonder 500™ Project Management Office
Public relations contact： Noel Communication Inc. (Goto, Suzuki, Shimizu, Saito)
Tel：03-3760-9690 / Fax：03-5408-8433 / Email：[email protected]
* Inquiries from the general public：
The Wonder 500™ Project Management Office
Tel：+81-50-3740-6272 (9：00-18：00, closed Sat., Sun., holidays)
＜Inquiries from the Press＞
3
Reference
The Wonder 500™ — Upcoming Activities and Events
In Japan ■All 500 products will be on display at a special exhibition at the 80th Tokyo International Gift Show
Autumn 2015
Dates: September 2–4 (Wed.–Fri.)
※2nd (Wed.) & 3rd (Thurs.): 10:00–18:00; 4th (Fri.): 10:00–15:00
Venue: Tokyo Big Sight (North Concourse), 3-11-1 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
■ 342 products from the goods category will be exhibited as one part of the 32nd Month of
Traditional Crafts of the National Citizen’s Congress to be held November 6–8 (Fri.–Sun.) in
Takaoka City in Toyama Prefecture at the national treasure Takaoka-san Zuiryu-ji Temple
Dates: November 6–8 (Fri.–Sun.)
Venue: Takaoka-san Zuiryu-ji Temple, 35 Sekihon-machi, Takaoka-shi, Toyama-ken
■Seminars on overseas development, networking events and exhibits of the selected products to be
held with business owners in local areas around Japan
Place Date Venue Address
Toyama Nov. 6, 2015 (Fri.) akaoka-san
Zuiryu-ji Temple
35 Sekihon-machi, Takaoka-shi,
Toyama-ken
Osaka Nov. 11, 2015 (Wed.) Knowledge
Theater
Knowledge Capital North Building
3-1 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka-shi,
Osaka-fu
Hiroshima Nov., 13, 2015 (Fri.) Chugoku Bureau
of Economy, Trade
and Industry
6-30 Kamihatchobori, Naka-ku,
Hiroshima-shi, Hiroshima-ken
Fukuoka Nov. 16, 2015 (Mon.) ACROS Fukuoka 1-1-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka-shi,
Fukuoka-ken
Sendai Feb. 2016
Sapporo Feb. 19, 2016 (Fri.) Sapporo Center
for Gender
Equality
Inside the Sapporo L Plaza
3-chome, Kita 8 Jonishi, Kita-ku,
Sapporo-shi, Hokkaido
Tokyo Feb. 23, 2016 (Tue.) JP TOWER Hall &
Conference
JP TOWER KITTE 4th & 5th floors
2-7-2 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo-to
* Event times are still under consideration.
4
Outside Japan
■Paris, France
An exhibit will be held in Paris, France during PARIS DESIGN WEEK 2015. In addition, about 200 of
the products will be featured at 10 of the best-known select shops in Paris participating in the Design
Week, where they will be on display and available for purchase. The appeal of these products will also
be conveyed at tasting and sampling events held at 4 bars and restaurants in the city.
PARIS DESIGN WEEK 2015
Dates: September 5–12 (Sat.–Sat.)
Website: http://www.maison-objet.com/en/paris-design-week
◆ About 60 products selected by 12 eminent persons from France and Japan (designers,
authors, chefs, etc.) will be exhibited, introducing Japan as seen from the perspective of the
two different cultures, at the “now! le off”event to be held at Les Docks–Cité de la Mode et du
Design (34, Quai d’Austerlitz, Paris 13e) as part of PARIS DESIGN WEEK 2015.
Brief Profiles of Eminent Persons from France and Japan (honorifics omitted)
Authors
Name Profile
Amélie Nothomb
A Belgian author, who spent his childhood in Japan. Her best-known work, the 1999
autobiographical novel, Stupeur et tremblements, became a best-seller and won the le
Grand Prix du Roman de l'Académie française. In 2014, her novel Ni d’Ève ni d’Adam,
which won le Prix de Flore, was released as a film entitled Tokyo Fiancée. She is also a
recipient of the le Grand Prix de Jean Giono for her may accomplishments.
Ryoko Sekiguchi
An author, poet and translator living in Paris, who writes in Japanese and French. In
2012, she was awarded the French government’s L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
Currently, she is writing a new work with Florent Chavouet, a French author of bande
dessinée.
5
Designers
Name Profile
Frédérique Morrel
A Parisian designer renowned for her works of art employing needlepoint embroidery in
furniture and other interior goods. In Japan, she held an exhibition in Minami-Aoyama in
2013. Beyond France, she is active on the global stage, exhibiting in Milan, Brussels,
London, New York, and other cities.
Kiyoyuki Okuyama
A Japanese industrial designer. After working in Italy as a designer with Ferrari, he
established his own brand. Under the Ken Okuyama Design name, with hubs in
Yamagata and Tokyo, he designs a wide variety of products, drawing on the techniques
of Japanese traditional crafts.
Journalists
Name Profile
Natacha Polony
An essayist and journalist living in Paris. After working with Le Figaro, she appeared on
the talk show “On n’est pas couché” on France 2 and the news program “Le Grand
Journal” on Canal plus. Today, she is the moderator of “Médiapolis,” a debate program
on Europe 1radio station.
Eriko Nakamura A media personality living in Paris. She publishes a magazine with her name in the title,
introducing lifestyles which influence many Japanese women.
Chefs
Name Profile
Pierre Gagnaire
A French chef who owns the Michelin three-star restaurant, Pierre Gagnaire. He
currently owns dining establishments in Tokyo, Hong Kong, Dubai, Seoul, and Las
Vegas.
Atsushi Tanaka A rising young star in French cuisine who lives in Paris, the owner of Restaurant A.T in
Paris. He is a frequent subject of coverage in magazines and other media.
Manga Authors
Name Profile
Florent Chavouet
A French author of bande dessinée (French comics). In 2009, he published Tokyo
Sanpo, a collection of illustrations he created while traveling in Japan (it was later
published in 2012 in Japan). In 2010, he published Manabé Shima, which featured his
visit to the island of that name in Okayama Prefecture. His most recent work, Petites
Coutures à Shioguni, won the Fauve Polar SNCF prize at France’s Angoulême
International Comics Festival.
Hirohiko Araki
A manga author best known for his long-running JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, which has
been serialized since 1987. His exquisite brushwork and masterful illustrations have
won him many dedicated fans around the world over the last 25 years. In 2009, one of
his non-serialized works was exhibited in full color at the Louvre.
6
Shops (Directors)
Name Profile
Colette
(Sarah Andelman）
The owner and creative director of Colette, perhaps the hottest select shop in Paris, the
city which is the global center of cutting-edge mode design. Colette is the launching
point for global trends and is visited by fans from around the world.
SIMPLICITY
(Shinichiro Ogata)
The representative of SIMPLICITY, he is creative director for WASARA paper art
vessels, which have won many design awards in and outside of Japan. Under the
concept of “cultural creation in contemporary Japan,” he developed Yakumosaryo and
HIGASHI-YAMA Tokyo, restaurants serving Japanese cuisine, as well as the Japanese
confectionary shop HIGASHIYA and the product brand Sゝゝ.
◆Parcours Japonais (Japanese course)
About 120 of The Wonder 500TM products will be displayed for sale at 10 of the best-known select
shops participating in PARIS DESIGN WEEK 2015.
④ Bows & Arrows & Sons （20 rue de Picardie,75003 Paris）
Filled with 100% “Made in Japan” items, this shop has a French owner and opens in the end of
August. Available here are design products, stationery, and accessories which make the most of
the traditional techniques that make Japan proud around the world.
⑤ Discover Japan (12 rue Sainte-Anne, 75001 Paris)
A space for discovery of Japanese products. Located in the center of Paris, this retail facility is
sometimes used as a showroom or for limited-time sales exhibits.
⑥ Maison Wa (8 bis rue Villedo,75001 Paris)
A space for discovery of Japanese products. Located in the center of Paris, this retail facility is
sometimes used as a showroom or for limited-time sales exhibits.
⑦ Tabio marais (15 rue Vieille du Temple,75004 Paris）
A specialty shop featuring socks and tights that has been offering Japanese style and comfort
and pursuing craftsperson’s quality since 1968. All of its products are created under close
management, offering the assurance of quality.
① Atsuko Matano (64 rue du Temple,75003 Paris)
Offers colorful, kawaii products with a Japanese flair, focusing on
towels and other sundries with cat or rabbit motifs, designed by
Atsuko Matano.
② Bernardin （9 rue des Quatre-Vents,75006 Paris）
A boutique offering men’s clothing, accessories and sundries
which opened in September after a remodel in the trendy
Saint-Germain-des-Prés area.
③ Bienvenue (7 rue d’Hauteville,75010 Paris)
Offers only carefully selected, high-quality products, mostly made
in France but with a tasteful dash of items from around the world.
A shop with a distinct worldview where design and culture meet.
7
⑧ UNIQLO LE MARAIS (39 rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75004 Paris）
For its shop in Le Marais, UNIQLO converted a jewelry factory built in the middle of the 19th
century using a modern design. In just one year since opening, it has already built a reputation as
a must-see spot in the Le Marais district.
⑨ Maison Aimable (16-18 rue des Taillandiers, 75011 Paris)
Just as its friendly name implies, this select shop features only products intimately handpicked by
the owner. Offers a selection of sophisticated products chosen for their superior quality.
⑩ FLEUX’ (39&52 rue Sainte-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie,75004 Paris）
A lifestyle shop made up of four wide-open spaces in the heart of the Le Marais district. From
exclusive collections to classic designs, its broad selection includes many a Paris trendsetter.
◆Parcours Kikizaké (Sake-tasting course)
About 13 products from the world of Japanese alcoholic beverages (sake, shochu, plum wine,
grape wine, etc.) will be featured at three bars and one restaurant in Paris during PARIS DESIGN
WEEK 2015.
① Lockwood (73 rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris)
A hybrid restaurant that is a café by day and a bar by night.
② Minato (5 rue de Louvois,75002 Paris)
A bar in the Japanese quarter offering Japanese sake,
whiskey, and cocktails made with original house liqueurs.
③ Sherry Butt (20 rue Beautreillis,75004 Paris)
Opened in 2012, this bar was a well-hidden secret before, in
2013, it made the “Top 20 Bars in Paris” list at the Figaro
Scope website, where it was noted as a “bar with delicious
cocktails.”
④ Sous les Cerisiers (12 rue Stanislas,75006 Paris)
A restaurant serving Japan-France fusion cuisine created by
a female Japanese chef, which also offers a broad selection
of Japanese sakes. In 2009, it made the culture page of the
Le Figaro website: “More than just delicious Japanese
cuisine, but also a very fine selection of wines.”
8
■London, United Kingdom
London New York Tokyo
Toronto Hong Kong Singapore
■Taipei, Taiwan
Planning is underway to display and sell products at famous shops such as Eslite Bookstore
(Chéngpǐn Shūdiàn)
Dates: December 2015 – January 2016 (planned)
Venues: Eslite Bookstore (Chéngpǐn Shūdiàn), Fujin Tree 355, etc.
■Hong Kong, China ■New York, USA
Planning underway for PR events Planning underway for PR events
Dates: November–December 2015 (planned) Dates: January–February 2016
Venue: TBD Venue: TBD
Other Activities ■Production of The Wonder 500TM Storybook — By November 2015
・ The unique appeal of the 500 products, along with information about the local areas they
come from, will be put together into a Storybook and published in multiple languages
(Japanese and English)
・ The Storybook will be distributed to overseas buyers and media, as well as Japanese
embassies and consulates
・ The Storybook will also be made available on the Web (in multiple languages)
In a tie-up with the global information magazine MONOCLE, published in
London, planning is underway to display about 10 products for sale in
MONOCLE’s directly-managed lifestyle shops—called MONOCLE
SHOPS—in six major world cities
Dates: November 2015 – March 2016 (planned)
9
Overview of The Wonder 500™ Brand
The Wonder 500™ Logomark:
Vertical Horizontal
Brand Name with Brand Statement (English):
The Wonder 500™ A collection of Japan's finest goods, foods, and travel experiences
The Wonder 500™ Catch Copy (Japanese) * For use in Japan
地方から世界へ。 世界にまだ知られていない、
日本が誇るべき全国の地方産品(ものづくり、食、観光体験）を発掘し、
世界に向けて PR・マーケティングを支援する
地方創生クールジャパンプロジェクト
Reference translation of Japanese catch copy:
From local Japan to the world Hidden treasures unknown to the globe…
The premium local products that are the pride and joy of Japan…
Goods, foods, and travel experiences, discovered by connoisseurs and promoted worldwide by global
marketing experts.
A “Cool Japan” project designed to spark Japan’s local economies.
The Wonder 500™ Product Discovery Concept Basic Policy (Concept):
“Local products that are the pride and joy of Japan but not yet known around the world” which fulfill the
following two conditions:
a) Items which convey the refined taste and persistent passion of their maker
b) Innovative items which combine Japan’s unmatched craftsmanship and services supported by
traditional Japanese values
10
Product Scope and Categories
Products will be selected in the following categories:
Goods Traditional crafts, furniture, interior décor items, sundries for
daily life, stationery, apparel, fashion items, etc.
Foods Food products which can be taken overseas, food
ingredients, snacks, beverages, seasonings, etc.
Travel
experiences
Experiential programs which convey the blessings of the
places which gave rise to local commodities and unique
forms of craftsmanship (combining agricultural experiences,
fishery experiences, factory visits, and traditional cultural
experiences), etc.
Selection Criteria
Criteria for endorsement by Producers and screening of public applications for inclusion are as
follows:
1) Items which reveal the “face” of their maker
・Handmade or manufactured goods which convey the refined taste, persistent passion or
philosophy of the maker
・Foods which convey the persistent passion and wisdom of the producer/maker
・Travel experiences which deliver an experience of the appeal surrounding the goods and foods
2) Purchasable items and items which can be sold via overseas sales channels
・Exportable goods and foods
・Travel experiences which can be enjoyed via inbound tourism
3) Items which have demonstrable characteristics and reasons for being chosen by overseas
consumers
・Items with features which can be used to distinguish them and convey reasons they should be
chosen
・Items with a “story” that brings together Japanese culture and unique local culture
4) Items which can be expected to generate overseas demand, which have a high potential for
success
* Items such as the following will be screened out at the selection phase
a. Items with no actual sales results
b. Items with very low production volumes or individual art pieces
c. Items which cannot be publically exhibited in or outside Japan
d. Items which require approval to sell, and for which that permission has not been obtained
prior to the public application process
e. Items whose main parts are produced outside Japan
f. Items which are identical or similar to items already being sold outside Japan
g. Items which are extremely difficult to ship overseas
h. Other items which the organizer deems inappropriate
11
Profiles of the Producers, and List of Judges for the Public Application Process
The Wonder 500™ Producers * Listed in alphabetical order (honorifics omitted)
■Jens H. Jensen — Editor
Representative Director, Japan Kolonihave Organization (a general incorporate association)
Japan Editor, Wallpaper*
■Yoshiko Ikoma — Fashion Journalist & Art Producer
Executive Producer, FUTURE TRADITION WAO
■Yukiko Ishimura — Space Coordinator
President, KURUMINOKI
After working with VOGUE and ELLE, was named chief editor of Marie
Claire in 2004. Since going independent in November 2008, she has
been proposing lifestyles for the new era and produces projects in many
different fields, spanning from fashion, art and design, to social
contribution and ecology, to ethical fashion and Cool Japan.
Born in Takamatsu City of Kanagawa Prefecture. After working at major
corporations on planning and retail development, opened KURUMINOKI,
a café and sundries shop in 1984. Next, she opened a second café and
sundries shop, and in 2004 went on to open Akishino no Mori, which
includes a hotel, restaurant and gallery. She established the Nara
Seikatsu Design Shitsu, where she engages in projects for Japanese and
foreign corporations and local government bodies in fields from product
planning to community development.
From Denmark, he majored in Japanese at the University of London and has
lived in Japan since 2002. While proposing the benefits of working with one’s
own hands, Scandinavian-style, in areas like cuisine, design, and
do-it-yourself projects in Japan, he also works to convey the strengths of
Japan to the world as Editor of the English version of Discover Japan and
Japan Editor for Wallpaper* magazine.
12
■ Yumiko Inukai — Restaurant Journalist
■ Takeo Ookuma — Director
Director, CLASKA Gallery&Shop “DO”
■ Hiroshi Ohnishi
President and CEO, Isetan Mitsukoshi Holdings
Based in Tokyo, covers local and overseas food culture as well as
developments at the forefront of the restaurant business. She writes
serialized features for many publications, from fashion to specialty
magazines, describing the strengths and contemporary appeal of individual
restaurants in a highly accessible style. Readers especially trust her
evaluations of new restaurants. She has spoken at many food-related
events. Served as a member of the Japan Pavilion Planning Committee for
EXPO Milano 2015, and is a member of the committee which selects Ryori
Masters (“Cooking Masters”) at Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry
and Fisheries.
Born in Tokyo in 1969. After graduating from the Faculty of Letters at
Keio University, he went on to work at an interior design company and
in editorial production, and then worked on the renewal of CLASKA. As
director of the lifestyle shop, CLASKA Gallery & Shop "DO”, which he
established at the same time, he is engaged in activities from buying to
overall planning and management. He currently oversees 9 of these
shops, located mostly in Tokyo.
Joined Isetan in 1979. Worked in the men’s wear department, and was
given responsibility for the staff of the new Men’s Building at the main
Shinjuku store when it was established in 2003. Later served in prominent
roles such as Manager of the Isetan Tachikawa store and General
Manager of Mitsukoshi MD. In 2009, was named President and Executive
Officer of Isetan Mitsukoshi Ltd., and since February 2012 has served as
President, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Officer of Isetan
Mitsukoshi Holdings Ltd. Setting a policy of “management that cares most
about people,” he continues to take the initiative—implementing fairer
evaluation of employees, reforming the human resources system, and
insisting that nothing is more important than the perspective from the
retail frontlines. Taking leadership on supply chain reform—one of the
fundamental issues facing the retail industry—he is making every effort to
ensure the continuous provision of high-quality products. He is committed
to building an environment where every person on the retail frontlines has
the opportunity to do meaningful work and share new value with
customers.
13
■Shinichiro Ogata
Representative, Simplicity Co.,ltd.
■Noriko Kawakami — Design Journalist
Associate Director, 21_21 DESIGN SIGHT
■Toshiki Kiriyma — Design Director
Representative Director, TRUNK LTD.
Established SIMPLICITY in 1998. Under the concept of “cultural creation
in contemporary Japan,” he has developed a Japanese confectionary
shop, restaurants serving Japanese cuisine, and several product
brands. He is engaged in design and direction in various fields across a
diverse range of projects. From 2011 to 2014, he served as Associate
Professor at The University Museum of The University of Tokyo. In 2015,
published the book, Higashiya.
After working in the editorial department at AXIS from 1986 to 1994,
she went on to serve as Editorial Director of the Japan-Italy Project at
the Domus Academy Research Center from 1994 to 1996. Since 2014,
she has been curating traveling exhibitions such as Japanese Design
Today 100 organized by the Japan Foundation.
Born in 1952. After working as an editor in advertising, marketing and
design, established TRUNK LTD. in 1988. Produced YCS DESIGN
LIBRARY, an architecture and design exhibit, chaired cross-industry
networking events, and launched the Net Magazine “JDN.” In 1993, he
began working to establish the Toyama Design Center, where he
served as Planning Director, before being appointed to his current
position as Center Design Director. Since 2005, has produced
appearances for LEXUS, CANON, and AISIN at Milano Salone. Has
worked with JETRO since 2007, and since 2014 has served as a
producer developing overseas markets for the Association for the
Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries (DENSAN). Produced the
publicity and events for the Japan Pavilian at EXPO Milano 2015. Also
serves as producer for “BITOWA” and “KANAYA.”
http://www.trunk-design.jp/
14
■Shujiro Kusumoto — Producer
President and Representative Director, CAFÉ COMPANY
■Akio Saito — Chef
Representative, Tenzosha, LLC
■Rie Sakanishi
President and Representative Director, Ryori-Tsushin Company
Born in Fukuoka Prefecture in 1964. After graduating from the
Department of Political Science and Economics at Waseda University,
he joined Recruit Cosmos. In 1993, he began working with the office of
the renowned management consultant Omae Kenichi, and was later
named secretary general of the Heisei Ishin no Kai. Then, following
development of Shibuya Cat Street and other projects, in 2001 he
established CAFÉ COMPANY, becoming President and Representative
Director.
Working with the theme of community-building, he is also engaged in
producing of commercial and other facilities.
After training in Tokyo and Hakata, Japan, served as manager and
head chef of “Daikon ya” in Tokyo’s trendy Daikanyama district. Went
on to serve as head chef at “Kyo,” the sushi boutique at Century Hyatt
Tokyo. Later, he was General Executive Chef for Japanese Cuisine
during the establishment of the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, and in 2005 he
helped to prepare for the opening CONRAD TOKYO, again as General
Executive Chef for Japanese Cuisine. In 2011, he opened Shichi Jyu
Ni Kou in Roppongi, where he serves as Owner Chef, and the
following year, he opened another Shichi Jyu Ni Kou inside Tokyo
Station Hotel.
Born in Tokyo. After working in the editorial office of CUISUNE
KINGDOM, in 2006, she launched The Cuisine Magazine. She has
held her current position since November 2007. Bringing together
makers (producers), users (chefs), and diners (consumers), she
engages in media activities to create and share a more rewarding food
lifestyle. Introducing the appeal of local areas through projects
including Shoku no Bunka-Issan (“The Heritage of Food Culture”) and
Otakara Shokuzai, she devotes her energies to communicating
Japanese ingredients.
15
■Shinichi Sato — Value Creator
Representative Director, ValueCreationService Co., Ltd.
■Mika Sato — Producer
Director, H.P. FRANCE
■Kengo Shibata — Artisan
Repesentative, Nipponism; Fourth-generation Owner, Kakuiwa-Shibata Goki
■Tomoo Shouken — Gallerist, Utsuwa Director
President, Utsuwa Shoken
After working with Recruit, launched ValueCreationService. In his
self-titled role as Value Creator, he has been involved in local
activities in more than 100 places all over Japan. As a producer, he
spends more than 300 days a year in local Japan on a quest to find
true value from the customer and media perspective.
After working in sales, as a buyer, with the press, and in showrooms,
in the year 2000, she started “rooms,” a joint exhibition space.
Selecting the concept each time, she creates new forms of exhibition
value. She has also served as a judge in fashion contests and a
lecturer in many different kinds of seminars.
Representative of Kakuiwa-Shibata Goki, a business with a heritage
stretching back to 1897, and a craftsperson skilled in the art of Edo-style
bag making. Also operates the website “Nipponism,” which aims to
ensure the traditional techniques of Japanese craftmaking are passed
down by spotlighting the artisans who still use them today. Devoted to
sharing the techniques of Japanese artisans.
Opened Utsuwa Shoken in Kamakura in 2002. Holds exhibits featuring
tableware and other vessels (“utsuwa”) that convey the functional beauty
of dining utensils in every region of Japan. Author of Hibi no Utsuwa
(Kawade Shobo Shinsha) and Utsuwa, Kono, Namonakimono (Ribun
Shuppan), as well as other publications. Has organized many major
exhibitions including “TABERU,” and “Utsuwa Romantic Exhibition” at
the SFT Gallery at The National Art Center, Tokyo.
16
■Yoshiaki Takazawa — Chef
Owner Chef, TAKAZAWA
■Yuudai Tachikawa — Director of Traditional Craft Techniques
Representative Director, t.c.k.w. Inc.
■Shouko Tsurumoto — Brand Manager
Director, NAGAE +
Born in Tokyo in 1976. Opened ARONIA DE TAKAZAWA in Akasaka in
2005. Starting in 2007, was invited to serve for three consecutive years
as Japan Representative for Lo mejor de la Gastronomia, a Spain-based
international cuisine association. In 2012, renewed and reopened his
restaurant, renaming it simply TAKAZAWA. Has been selected for S.
Pellegrino’s ASIA TOP 50 for three straight years since 2013.
Born in Nagasaki Prefecture in 1965. Bringing together interior
designers, architects, and experts in various traditional crafts from all
over Japan, he conducts the “ubushina” project, which creates furniture,
light fixtures, and other objets d’art using an haute couture approach to
ensure every work blends in perfectly with the space it will inhabit.
Through this effort, he seeks to expand the field of traditional craft
techniques. While completing projects for Tokyo Sky Tree, The
Peninsula Tokyo, Isetan Shinjuku and many others, he has for many
years provided branding direction for Nousaku, a maker of cast metal in
Takaoka.
After graduating from Joshibi University of Art and Design Junior
College, has collaborated with contemporary artists based in New York
and Tokyo and participated in many exhibits in and outside Japan. Later,
in 2007, serving as Creative Director of the SUSgallery brand at
Tsubame-Sanjo, she built it into a global brand. In 2015, she became
brand manager of Takaoka’s Nagae+ brand, starting yet another project
to build a “Made in Japan” concept into a global brand.
17
■Aki Tomura — Creative Director
Director, Fermenstation, Co., Ltd.
■Shinichiro Nakahara — Producer
Representative, Landscape Products Co., Ltd.
■Shigeki Hattori — Designer, Creative Director
Representative Director, graf (decorative mode no. 3 design products inc.)
After working in and outside of Japan as an ink brush painting artist, she
switched to the field of design, where she did total branding and
production including naming, concepting, logo design, package design
and original product development for commercial facilities. In 2006, she
won awards in and outside of Japan for her direction and art, including
the i-D Creative Award. In April 2015, she published EKIBEN: The
Ultimate Japanese Travel Food, a book introducing Japan’s unique
culture of train bento meal boxes. She also authored 70 Japanese
Gestures to help interested people from other countries get deeper
insight into Japan. http://www.hamiru-aqui-notion.jp/
Born in 1971 in Kagoshima Prefecture. Developed various enterprises,
including Playmountain, which handles original furniture, the cafe
TasYard, the coffee stand BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR COFFEEKIOSK, the
children’s label CHIGO, the gallery space CURATOR’S CUBE, and the
Vietnamese Pho 321 Noodle Bar. Also works in home and retail design,
event production, and brand direction. http://landscape-products.net/
Born in 1970 in Osaka. In 1988, established graf with friends he met in
an interior shop. Active in furniture and interior-related design as well as
branding direction, in recent years he is bringing those strengths to
social action for regional revitalization. http://www.graf-d3.com/
18
■Yoshitaka Haba — Book Director
Representative, BACH Ltd.
■Akiko Hino — Buyer
Representative, Studio Boke
■Hirotoshi Maruwaka — Producer
Representative Director, Maruwakaya Co., Ltd.
■Yu Mizushiro — Producer
Representative Director, good mornings Co., Ltd.
Born in 1976 in Tsushima City in Aichi Prefecture. Working to get new and
exciting books into the hands of the people, he connects bookstores with
various industries and produces corporate and hospital libraries. Some of
his most notable work includes SOUVENIR FROM TOKYO and Brooklyn
Parlor at THE NATIONAL ART CENTER, TOKYO and Beauty Apothecary,
CIBONE, and la kagu at Isetan Shinjuku.
Also working as a writer and editor, his activities are as broad-ranging as
the places he has brought the joy of books.
Born in 1967 in Kanagawa Prefecture. While attending Kyoritsu Women’s
University, did coursework with the industrial designer, Yoshio Akioka,
and became interested in local craftsmanship. After working in the sales
department of a trading house handling Scandinavian design and
Japanese handmade goods, she started her own business in 1999. Under
the name “Studio Boke,” she engages in wholesaling that links makers
and shops, plans exhibitions, and serves as an advisor to local industry.
She also writes and lectures at universities.
From bases in Japan and France, aims to deliver amazement and joy to
the lives of 21st-century people through top-echelon techniques and
innovative initiatives in a broad range of fields from traditional crafts to
the cutting-edge of contemporary industry. Opened NAKANIWA, where
he displays and sells beautiful Japanese goods in the Saint Germain area
of Paris. In 2014, he started an international project to celebrate the 400th
anniversary of Arita Ware porcelain that is coming up in 2016.
http://maru-waka.com
At IDEE, was involved in launching cafes and other projects. In 2012,
established “good mornings.” Working to develop creative spaces
focusing on food, he aims to bring new life to towns, create regional
community centers, and engages in media production related to these
themes. http://goodmornings.co.jp/
19
■Rika Yajima — Entrepreneur
Representative Director, aeru
■Junzo Yamashita — Creative Director
Representative Director, SPACE MAGIC MON Co.
■Yu Yamada — Buyer, Editorial Supervisor
Representative Director, method
While attending Keio University, she established the company aeru
in March 2011. Went on to create aeru, “a traditional brand for kids
from 0 to 6” which offers daily goods for children made in
collaboration with Japanese craftspersons, with the aim of
ensuring that children encounter handmade crafts as early in life
as possible. In July 2014, she opened the directly managed shop,
“aerumeguro.” She is the author of Aeru —Dentou Sangyou wo
Kodomo ni Tsunagu 25-sai Josei Kigyouka and three other books.
http://a-eru.co.jp/
Born in Kyoto in 1958. In 1990, established SPACE MAGIC MON,
an interior and product design studio. Pursues craftsmanship
under the concept of making the most of traditional goods to build
Japan’s aesthetic spaces. Proposing new lifestyles which draw on
traditional materials and techniques that Kyoto has loved for
centuries, he is currently introducing traditional products in French
and Italian markets.
From Tokyo. After working as a buyer for IDEE Shop in
Minami-Aoyama, in 2007, established method and began working
as a freelance buyer. Currently serves as Representative Director
of method inc. In 2013, he published Bessatsu Discover Japan
Kurashi no Senmonten (Ei Shuppan-sha), and in 2014 Design to
Sense De Ureru Shop Seikou no method (Seibundo Shinkosha).
Serves on the panel of judges for various competitions including
the Good Design Award and as a part-time professor at Kyoto
Seika University, and also lectures and presents broadly at
educational institutions and in production areas.
20
■Masaki Yokokawa — Producer
Representative Director, WELCOME Co., Ltd.; Representative Director, DEAN & DELUCA Japan
Judges for The Wonder 500™ Public Application Process * Listed in alphabetical order (honorifics omitted)
Reason for Selection for Panel of
Judges Name Title and Organization
Professionals from Japan’s retail
and distribution industry who are
actively promoting international
development
Hiroyoshi Azami
Head of Business Development, Ryohin
Keikaku
Yuko Aso Executive Officer and Sales Division
Manager, Tokyu Hands
Takeshi Shinozaki Central Buyer, Living and Food Division,
MD Headquarters, Takashimiya
Professionals who provide services
or are engaged in product sales to
overseas visitors to Japan
Kei Abe
Guest Relations, Concierge, Grand Hyatt
Tokyo; Honorary Chairperson, Les Clefs
d'Or International
Momoko Ohno
Founder President, Les Clefs d'Or Japan;
Honorary Chairperson, Les Clefs d'Or
International
Fuminori Sato Head, Solution Business Headquarters,
RH Traveler
Foreign connoisseurs with influence
over product distribution in
international markets
William To
Creative Director, PMQ (Hong Kong)
Mao Tanchin
ZhiJapan Chief Editor, ZhiJapan (China);
author; professor at Kobe International
University
In 2000, established George’s Furniture (currently WELCOME Co.,
Ltd.). Went on to develop several lifestyle brands such as CIBONE and
GEORGE’S, while setting up co-branded cafes. This became a catalyst
for his deepening relationship with food, which led him to bring New
York’s DEAN & DELUCA to Japan in 2003. Since 2007, he has been
involved in direction work for public facilities and concept stores such
as the SOUVENIR FROM TOKYO museum shop in the National Art
Center, Tokyo in Roppongi, as well as interior design and consulting.
He continues to go beyond food, clothing, and shelter to propose
“tasteful living” by launching new initiatives one after the other, such as
TODAY’S SPECIAL which he opened in 2012 under the theme of “food
and living.”
21
Project Implementation Structure
Information on The Wonder 500™ Project Management Office The executing agency appointed to operate The Wonder 500™ Project Management Office for this
auxiliary enterprise of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan is Revamp Corporation
(Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Representative Director, President and CEO: Takashi Sawada).
Serving as partners are the following:
• The Office for Discovery of “Hometown Specialties” undertaking the discovery of local products
will be operated by Ei Publishing Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Setagaya-ku, Tokyo; Representative
Director and President: Sumi Kenji).
• The Domestic Office implementing events, PR and publications in Japan to support
network-building for local business owners will be operated by Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.
(Headquarters: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Kaneko Shingo).
• The Office for Overseas PR & Creative Work, which will create the Storybook introducing the
collection of local products outside Japan as well as implement overseas PR & marketing planning,
will be operated by id10japan (Headquarters: Meguro-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and
CEO: Katsunari Sawada).
Office for Discovery of “Hometown Specialties” (Producer Management)
Ei Publishing Co., Ltd.
METI
Project Management Office
Revamp Corporation
Domestic Office
(Domestic Events, Domestic PR, Printing) Toppan Printing Co., Ltd.
Office for Overseas PR & Creative Work
・ (Creative Direction, Brand Management,
Overseas PR & Marketing Planning) id10japan
Overseas Office
* Paris, London, Taipei,Hong Kong, New York, etc.
currently under consideration
Request approval Subsidize/support
