"TAKUMI – Modern Japanese Craftsmanship" Reception Party

On Wednesday 19 September 2018, the Embassy of Japan, Seiko Watch Corporation and Suntory Spirits Limited co-hosted a reception party, titled “TAKUMI – Modern Japanese Craftsmanship”, at the Ambassador's Residence.

Both Seiko and Suntory have rich histories, dating back more than one hundred years, and have taken traditional western techniques and turned these into uniquely Japanese products. The reception was an opportunity for guests to experience the craftsmanship and ingenuity that creates these high-quality modern Japanese products, and to learn more about the spirit that is so deeply rooted in Japanese culture.

The reception began with an opening address from the Ambassador Tsuruoka, followed by greetings from Mr Shinji Hattori, Chairman and Group CEO of Seiko Holdings Corportation, and Mr Nobuhiro Torii, Deputy CEO of Suntory Holdings Limited.

Guests then had the opportunity to hear directly from Micro Artist Studio Watchmaker Mr Yoshifusa Nakazawa, as he discussed his work as a Craftsman of Grand Seiko. This was followed by a talk from Mr Kazuyuki Torii, Craftsman of Japanese Craft Gin “ROKU” and Gin and Spirits Senior Specialist of Suntory Spirits. Guests would later have the chance to enjoy a Grand Seiko display and demonstration, as well as sample the delights of cocktails made with Suntory’s ROKU craft gin. Guests could also have their photos taken with the Grand Seiko and ROKU gin as a souvenir.

The event welcomed many international guests from different backgrounds, including industry, government, the arts and media, and a wide variety of Japanese cuisine was also served.

The Embassy of Japan