Audio Guide

Built to Be Fragile, Made to Last.
At first, it might sound like a contradiction.
But in fact, it’s one of the defining features of Japan’s traditional approach to cyclical craftsmanship.

Logically, when making things, durability seems like a fine goal.
Yet here, objects are intentionally made soft—
This gallery showcases creations made with their eventual rebirth in mind.

Because they are soft, they can be easily repaired when broken, or flexibly absorb impacts rather than shatter.
And when they wear out, they can be reshaped into something new.

For centuries, Japanese culture has been filled with ingenious ways to keep objects in the cycle.
Now, explore the wisdom and techniques of Japanese craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations.