Interview with the Executive Committee Representative, Okano Chihiro
The Takahashi River Marche is now in its 14th edition. Have there been any changes since the early days?
Okano
At first, we aimed to sell local products to people from outside.
We wanted visitors, like tourists, to understand the goodness of the region.
We valued having a stylish marche.
Recently, however, we have started to focus more on the inside.
I have come to think that if the local people are not satisfied and happy, the marche has no meaning. It’s important for the people involved to feel fulfilled and happy.
I created the opportunity by coming from outside, but I think it’s better to return it to the local people.
While administrative work is fine, I believe the main characters should be the people of the town, especially the young people.
In 2019, we will also have a program where intern students guide visitors around Kurashiki.
I want to make it easier for young people to participate.
Change is necessary, isn't it?
Okano
I believe a changing marche is a good thing.
While the attitude and thinking towards craftsmanship may not change, I think it’s important to continually innovate the style of involvement and management.
There are many events in Kurashiki during this season.
Okano
Achi Shrine also has its festival, and there is the Byobu Festival.
On the 19th, the Kurashiki Roji Market (Roji-ichiba) will also be held, and on the 20th, the Kurashiki Sansai Market will take place, so you can enjoy them together.
Kurashiki Roji Market: A market held every Saturday in the alleys of Kurashiki
Kurashiki Sansai Market: A market selling agricultural products, crafts, and local processed goods in the shopping district
How were the two artists selected?
Okano
I expressed the hope that we should have young people, and the director, Mito-san, recommended them.
Ushimune-san is from Mabi.
He majored in Japanese painting at university and is currently involved in product packaging development.
Take-san studied at Musashino Art University and returned to Okayama, continuing his creative activities while working as a company employee.
In Kurashiki, there has been a tradition of supporting crafts by purchasing works, especially centered around the Ohara family.
I wonder if that spirit of supporting creators will return.
I also spoke with interns Miyake Shuto and Ogawa Mayuka from the Business Administration Department at Shujitsu University.
What aspects do you want people to enjoy?
Miyake
I think the Bikan Historical Area is famous, but there are other attractions as well.
I want people to discover new and hidden charms.
Ogawa
I live in Kurashiki, but there were areas I didn’t know about.
I was able to discover cute shops, and I hope many people can learn about them.
Takahashi River Marche's SNS
On Facebook and Instagram, we provide detailed introductions of the participating stores and artists.
Conclusion
The Takahashi River Marche gathers pleasant things that enrich our lives.
What kind of encounters will we have this year?
I feel that new initiatives, like a garage sale, will be interesting.
On October 19th (Saturday) and 20th (Sunday), please come out to the Takahashi River Marche.
Data for Takahashi River Marche 2019
| Name | Takahashi River Marche 2019 |
|---|---|
| Date | October 19th (Saturday) and 20th (Sunday), 2019, from 10 AM to 5 PM |
| Location | 3-21-31 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Participation Fee (Tax Included) | Free admission |
| Website | Takahashi River Marche 2019 | Takahashigawa marche 2019 |
