AsiaStore Supplier Tampopo in Japan
We have just returned from Japan and want to make a report of our journey. This particular year we felt compelled to go see our friends to show our support in this time of national crisis. Even though the carnage of the earthquake/tsunami was confined largely to the northern coastal regions, the entire country has been psychologically damaged by the experience. Stories of the painful aftermath unfolded with each visit, but the overwhelming feeling was of survival and renewal. The Japanese people are very aware and appreciative of the support extended by the American people in their time of need, particularly the emergency crews from the US military for medical assistance and in the reopening of the Sendai airport. Our friends were effusive in their gratitude.
Many stories were told about the families and friends who suffered losses in the tragedy. Some had already spent time volunteering in the rescue efforts or were scheduled to participate. One of our ceramics makers was closing down their kilns for two weeks, taking their entire crew of two dozen workers up to help with the debris removal and other tasks of reconstruction. The Sugaharas in particular are involved in fundraising efforts directed toward the reconstruction. No one remained unaffected by the disaster.
What we experienced during our time in Japan was the conspicuous absence of tourists. Never in our more than three decades of visiting Japan have we seen so few foreigners. With both international and domestic tourism almost at a standstill, a significant part of their economy is at risk. Retail business plummeted after the disaster, with most people feeling it was not appropriate to be shopping while so many of their fellow countrymen were in such peril. The great Japanese architect Tadao Ando expressed it eloquently, saying that "I think Japan needs to rethink its connection to family, love for one's country, its role in Asia and the responsibilities as an individual living on this planet." He believes that this is a potential moment for Japan to redefine itself.
At this point in time, the support that Japan seems to need most is a sense of normalcy. If you have ever wanted to experience Japan, this is the time to go and enjoy this amazing culture. It is a good time to support Japanese design and manufacturing, including drinking lots of sake! Japan will recover with dignity, and does not seek a hand out. What it most appreciates is being appreciated, just as we all do. We need to support and encourage those who most reflect our own values and ideals.
During our time in Japan, visiting all of our traditional makers, we worked together to choose and create designs for the upcoming season that reflect the best of Japanese tradition as seen through the lens of our own time. We returned with a renewed sense that our friendship and support does make a difference.
