Minka Forum 2026 in Gifu Nakatsugawa

About this event

Minka Forum 2026 in Gifu Nakatsugawa is an event themed around passing on traditional Japanese houses (minka) across eras and beyond oceans. With the signing of a friendship agreement between the Japan Association for Minka Regeneration and the Registro Japanese-Brazilian Cultural Association in Brazil, the association has also become involved in cooperating to preserve Brazilian immigrant residences remaining locally. Nakatsugawa City, the host city, has a sister-city partnership with Registro in the State of Sao Paulo, and this forum focuses not only on the association's philosophy of passing down Japanese minka to the next generation, but also on the mission of passing them down beyond national borders. In particular, it sheds light on the activities of younger generations to explore prospects for carrying minka forward. The symposium includes panel discussions covering the activities and achievements of the Japan Association for Minka Regeneration, case studies of minka restoration by registered businesses, the relocation and preservation of Brazilian immigrant residences alongside initiatives at Museum Meiji-Mura, the 30-year journey of Kashimo Mokushou Juku in the Kashimo district, and efforts by young practitioners regarding the preservation, utilization, research, and revitalization of minka and settlements. Simultaneously, panel exhibitions and consultation sessions by the Japan Association for Minka Regeneration and the Japan House Movers Association will be held. Furthermore, on the day before the symposium, a guided town walk will be held in Nakatsugawa-juku, which retains the atmosphere of a historic post town. On the following day, attractive optional tours will be offered, including a bus tour exploring the history and present of woodworking techniques, the historic theater Kashimo Meiji-za in the forestry and woodworking town of Kashimo, and the achievements of Kashimo Mokushou Juku, as well as a guided tour of the Brazilian immigrant residence at Museum Meiji-Mura. At the reception, an award ceremony for the Minka Regeneration Encouragement Award will also be held to honor achievements in minka restoration.

Venue

Nakatsugawa City Central Community Center

2-3-25 Honmachi, Nakatsugawa, Gifu 508-0041