Discover regional varieties of Japanese craft practices as an incentive for travel in this panel discussion between Japan House London and National Geographic Traveller as part of the Travel Geeks series.

Many contemporary craft-making practices used in Japan today have a long heritage, some of which that have developed among multi-generational family lines, regional schools of practice and local manufacturers. This has led to the regional variety in style and technique that can be seen today in Japanese glassware, ceramics, metalwork and wood carving, among others.

Hosted by National Geographic Traveller and featuring Japan House London’s Programming Director Simon Wright, this panel discussion explores the importance and variety of craft from across Japan, to offer a deeper understanding of this variety in heritage, and alternative travel destinations for those who wish to explore Japan through its craft.

About the speakers
Hosono Hitomi
Hosono was born in Gifu Prefecture, Japan. She studied the Kutani ceramic tradition in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, before continuing her artistic training in Copenhagen and London. She is known for her botanically inspired ceramic pieces which look to the aesthetic traditions of both Japan and Europe. In 2018 she was chosen to be the first artist-in-residence at Wedgwood. Hosono's pieces can be found in the permanent collections of the British Museum and the V&A.

Matt Joslin
Matt, Marketing and Communications Manager at the Japanese National Tourism Organisation, has been passionate about Japan ever since he started learning the language and Japanese pop culture in his early teens. He has lived and studied in Tokyo and travelled widely across the country, inspired by the diverse wonders of off-the-beaten-track Japan.

Simon Wright
Simon, Director of Programming at Japan House London, has worked for over 30 years in or with Japan. He has worked with the Japan House project since its beginning and is passionate about activities which evolve through co-creation and co-production. He works closely with a wide variety of artists and content holders from Japan daily.

Pico Iyer
Pico Iyer is author of more than a dozen books, including A Beginner’s Guide to Japan and Autumn Light. He regularly contributes to The New York Review of Books, Granta, the Financial Times and many international magazines. His three recent TED Talks have received seven million views so far.

Jo Fletcher-Cross
Jo is Contributing Editor at National Geographic Traveller (UK) and is particularly enthusiastic about food, art, theatre, the Eurovision Song Contest, comedy and Dolly Parton.