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A Spiritual Heritage
In Japan there are a large number of traditional craft products that can be traced back through the ages. Each is unique fostered
through regional differences and loving dedication and provides a continual wealth of pleasure. However, during the last 50 years, changes in the socio-economic structure of Japanese society, accompanied by a Westernization of traditional lifestyle, have resulted in a mass production of some traditional crafts.

For this reason, many traditional craft industries that date from before the Edo period (1600-1868) face considerable problems. Traditional craft products differ greatly from mass-produced products in that they bring a richness and charm to consumer lifestyles. It is imperative, therefore, that these traditions be passed on to future generations as one of the cultural treasures of the Japanese people.

During the latter half of the 1960s, interest in
concerning the promotion of traditional

In July, 1975, based on the new
Traditional Craft Industries was
traditional craft industry.

 
traditional craft industries increased. Subsequently, laws
craft industries were enacted in May, 1974.

legislation, The Association for the Promotion of
established by a nation-wide consensus from the


This Association, under the
guidance of national and regional authorities, has been
active in the promotion of traditional crafts at a grass-
roots level while ensuring that these traditions are
passed on to the next generation. Traditional Craft Products
Designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry
For a craft item to be designated a Traditional Craft Product under
the Law for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries,
it must satisfy the criteria outlined below.

Items that are not craft products themselves, but which are
indispensable for the production of a Traditional Craft Product
and which satisfy all criteria apart from "A," are categorized as Traditional Craft Tools and Materials designated by the
Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and are promoted
in the same way as Traditional Craft Prosducts.

A. The article must be used mainly in everyday life.

B. The article must be primarily manufactured by hand.

C. The article must be manufactured using traditional
techniques.

D. The materials should be mainly those which have been traditionally employed.

E. The industry must be of a regional nature.
 
Scope of Activities
1.Assistance is provided in the promotion of local traditional craft areas so designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry:

After meeting a rigid set of standards established by leading artisans, craftsmen receive official recognition as master craftsmen.

Public commendations, as well as financial awards, are bestowed on those people who have contributed to the promotion of local craft production over a long period of time.

Awareness of traditional craft products is promoted on a national level, consumer opinions are polled, and the actual state of craft production is surveyed and reported on in a quarterly magazine called "Living with Tradition."

The Association issues a certificate of authenticity for each craft product that bears the symbol mark of a traditional craft product designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. It also coordinates inspections and surveys in local production areas to ensure that crafts produced meet the criteria set by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.

2.The Association continuously researches ways in which traditional craft products can be best utilized today:

Data on materials, techniques and original ideas that have affected the design of traditional craft products over the centuries are analyzed by the Association and serve as basic research data for future design and quality improvements.

In order to cope with increasing international demand for traditional craft products, the Association is helping to organize exhibits and other programs overseas. In addition, the Association is promoting the creation of modern traditional crafts that will meet the needs of a worldwide society.

3.The Association is endeavoring to ensure the spread of literature and information about traditional crafts to keep the consumer informed:

Japan Traditional Craft Center located in the fashionable area of Ikebukuro, Tokyo . Here, apart from the permanent exihibition of products designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Center provides a venue for the user to come face to face with the maker at various events.

The Center also invites those interested to become members, who are then entitled to a discount made on purchases at the Center, may join tours of craft producing areas, and provides them with information bulletins.

November is Traditional Craft Products Month, during which there is a major event--Zen Nihon Taikai--involving the whole of the country and reaffirming the spirit of the organization, as well as a number of other promotional events throughout the country.

The main event is the Traditional Crafts Plaza at which about 100 artisans from all over the country assemble to demonstrate their particular crafts. This provides an ideal opportunity for the user to see at first hand how the maker works. In addition, some of the work of the masters of the traditional craft world is put on display.

The All Japan Traditional Craft Products Festival is held once a year in Tokyo to display products from every corner of the archipelago. A contest is also held during which many prizes, including the Prime Minister's Prize, are awarded.

A picture and essay contest for primary and junior high school children is held every year to help promote an awareness of traditional crafts. Pamphlets and books tailored to suit primary children are also distributed to schools nationwide.