I had the privilege of attending "MINKA 2025 International Minka Conference (MinkaCon)" as a participant, which was held for three days from November 7th to 9th, 2025, at Aichi Prefectural Forest in Shinshiro City, Aichi Prefecture.
The conference, centered around the themes of "Minka (traditional Japanese houses)" and "traditional architectural techniques," brought together experts, artisans, researchers, and architecture enthusiasts from Japan and abroad.
Through lectures, workshops, demonstrations, recitations, artisan booths, and minka tours, it was a valuable opportunity to discuss the future of Japanese architectural culture.
Keynote speeches were delivered by Mr. Chris Allstrom, former President of the World Monuments Fund, and Ms. Miyoko Ide, Japan Representative, who spoke about the significance and potential of Japanese minka culture from a global perspective.
Each of their words conveyed a strong will and warm regard for connecting tradition to the future.
How will community-based wooden architecture and the wisdom of artisans connect with modern design and lifestyles?
The discussions and encounters at this conference were a great learning experience for us at Ha Partners,
and served as an important opportunity to re-examine our "craftsmanship" and "space creation."
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the organizers for creating such a wonderful opportunity,
and to the people of Shinshiro City and the local community for their warm welcome.
Ha Partners will continue to explore sustainable and beautiful forms for the future
through activities that connect tradition and creativity.
▼Click here for event details
[MINKA 2025 International Minka Conference (MinkaCon) Official Page]
Takumi Matsuda
Ha Partners