Through a wide-ranging programme, Japan House London will shine a spotlight on the artisans, craftsmen, designers, performers, musicians and other creatives who are making waves in Japan and around the world – from internationally renowned individuals to emerging artists who are excelling in their field.
Almost every aspect of Japan House London is derived “from source” in Japan; from its interior design features, such as hand-made kawara floor tiles from Japan’s Awaji Island, to the exhibitions and events, and authentic retail products sourced from across Japan.
Along with Los Angeles and São Paulo, it is one of three new global locations created by the Government of Japan to offer insights into Japan that go beyond stereotypes - both old and new - and to offer deeper and more authentic explorations, often through more personal and intimate stories of the country. By consistently asking and answering the question “What is Japan?” Japan House will show a multi-faceted culture in a constant state of adaption and evolution.
On the lower ground floor, guests to Japan House will find an exhibition gallery, events space and library, dedicated to providing an authentic encounter with Japan via a calendar of regular changing themes.
The opening exhibition is Sou Fujimoto: Futures of the Future. Seen for the first time in the UK, the exhibition explores the innovative works of one of Japan’s most influential contemporary architects, FUJIMOTO Sousuke. Linking to the London Festival of Architecture, it will present Fujimoto’s philosophical and sustainable approach to architecture, looking at current projects but also his experiments for the future. On 12 June, Fujimoto will give a Sou Fujimoto: Futures of the Future lecture at the Design Museum.
The Library at Japan House will offer a new approach to appreciate and engage with books through bookshelf exhibitions curated by HABA Yoshitaka of BACH. A book specialist in Japan, BACH is revolutionizing the way books are displayed and curated and has helped bookstores in Japan successfully champion paper books in the digital era.
The Shop will present a carefully edited inventory of Japanese products ranging from crafts and design goods through to cutting-edge technology, including high-quality stationery including washi, Japanese paper; kitchenware made by skilled Japanese artisans; dinnerware; accessories; bathwear and beauty products; architecture-related goods to compliment the opening exhibition; and a book collection curated by BACH.
The ground floor also features The Stand, a drinks and snack bar serving take-away Nel Drip coffee, authentic Japanese teas and Japanese and Japan-inspired snacks. Nel Drip coffee is made using the pour-over method, filtered through a nel brewer; ‘nel’ being short for a flannel, cloth filter. The flannel filter brews a smooth, rich, less acidic coffee. Japan House looks forward to introducing this particular style to London.
The restaurant, Akira, will offer an authentic Japanese dining experience based on Chef Akira’s ‘trinity of cooking’ principles – food, tableware and presentation. Akira, who is no stranger to the London gastronomic circuit, having opened some of the UK’s most highly regarded Japanese restaurants, has big ambitions for the restaurant and is striving to create “an innovative Japanese restaurant like no other ever-before-seen in London”.
Guests will be immersed in Japanese-style omotenashi hospitality and experience the theatre of cooking as chefs prepare dishes reflecting Japan’s surprisingly diverse food offer, using seasonal ingredients over roaring robata (charcoal grill) flames. Highlights of the menu include imaginative sushi specialities and chargrilled kushiyaki skewers made from umamirich wagyu beef, pork, chicken, seafood and vegetables.
We are delighted that Japan House London have joined as a member of Discover South Kensington and we look forward to welcoming them to the area. To find out more about Japan House London, click here.
