“COMMUNITY” AS A FACTOR IN PRESERVING THE TRADITIONAL JAPANESE CRAFT OF KAMAKURA-BORI

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2025-0042

Abstract

This paper analyzes the role of the community in preserving the Kamakura-bori, a traditional lacquered wood carving craft with a history of over 700 years in Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture. Employing qualitative research methods, including interviews with artisans, on-site observations at production facilities, and analysis of historical documents and policy materials, the paper demonstrates that the Kamakura-bori community not only maintains traditional techniques and cultural values but also actively engages in education, skill transmission, market development, and product innovation. From community classes to cultural experience workshops and tourism-craft fusion models, the community has created a flexible cultural and social ecosystem that enables the Kamakura-bori craft to adapt to modern society.