IN FOCUS
In Focus with Ryo Kojima
Ryo Kojima is the 10th-generation craftsman at Kojima Shoten, a historic lantern workshop specialising in the Kyo-Jibari style. Dedicated to preserving tradition, he handcrafts chochin using natural materials while exploring new possibilities for their use in modern settings.
Handcrafted lamps by Kojima Shoten are featured in the Apartment, located on the upper floor of our Aoyama, Tokyo store.
Your craftsmanship in the Kyo-Jibari style of chochin making dates back to the late 18th century. Why is it important for Kojima Shoten to continue preserving this tradition?
I feel a responsibility to preserve this tradition, but more importantly, I have a strong desire to do so. I don't want to be the one to interrupt its lineage.
What is your favourite part of the process when making the lamps?
My favorite part of the process is pasting washi paper onto the lantern frames, which are made of vertical bamboo rings.
How does Kojima Shoten balance keeping the traditional Kyo-Jibari style and introducing modern techniques or thinking into its craftsmanship?
We have maintained the original shapes and sizes of our lanterns, unchanged for centuries. We always use natural materials to make lanterns, which are washi paper, glue from wheat, and wood. I believe this aligns well with the current global emphasis on natural materials. I'm also very excited about the potential for lanterns to be used in innovative ways.
“In the past, Japanese lanterns were used during a special period called ‘Obon’ to welcome our ancestors back home so that they would not get lost on the way. During the festival, temples and shrines use many lanterns to show Japanese gods the way back to the shrine from heaven. From this ancient way of using lanterns, they are now used as the main signage for restaurants, hotels, and other places to welcome people with warm hearts.”
How has Kojima Shoten adapted its craftsmanship to incorporate more sustainable materials or methods while keeping the spirit of tradition alive?
Whenever we make lanterns, natural materials that grow around our daily lives are used, and we still do not change them. This is also noted in several historical books about Japanese crafts from 150 years ago. Not only the making method but also almost all the materials remain the same.
How long can it take to make one of your lamps, and how many people are normally involved?
It depends on how big the lanterns are. For instance, creating a traditional 30 cm round lantern, from splitting the bamboo to the final painting, takes a full day to complete just one piece. The key materials we use are washi paper made from mulberry bark, wood, bamboo, and wheat-based glue.
“My grandfather and father never asked me to take over the business when I was a child. I just naturally thought I wanted to be involved in the family business after I graduated from high school.”
We have two different types of lamps from you in our Aoyama flagship store. Can you tell us a bit more about the design and origin?
The lantern is called 'Sahku go,' and it's a traditional round shape measuring approximately 45 cm in diameter. We have been using this wooden mould for more than 60 years after it was repaired.
Is there a specific memory from your time working at Kojima Shoten that made you proud?
The project I am most proud of is the Supreme NY project in 2022. As you can imagine, we make lanterns through a handmade process, and it takes days to make one lantern. Our lanterns are not mass-produced. For this project, we made 1,250 lanterns in five months with eight craftsmen and staff members. This project revealed new possibilities and growth opportunities for Kojima Shoten.
Where would you take us in Kyoto?
I would take you to 泉涌寺 (Sennyuji Temple), which is near our studio. It is a very calm place, surrounded by forest, spiritual, and holy.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
I am always with my wife and children, going to parks and other fun places fo children. We call it
“食住一体 (Shoku Ju Ittai)”, which translates to 'working and living in the same location.' I believe this close integration of work and family is essential for a family business.
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