An opening ceremony was held at JCC for the impressive Yamagata Design Exhibition. The event, collaborated by Yamagata Prefectural Government and JCC saw over 120 invited guests.

The night began by a greeting from JCC’s own, Director Ms Misako Ito followed by a warm welcoming speech by His Excellency Ambassador Takeuchi Haruhisa. An opening address was made by the Governor of Yamagata Prefecture, Ms Mieko Yoshimura on the charms of Yamagata such as their amazing production of fruits and geographical features.

Introducing the Yamagata Design Exhibition was Mr Hakuei Kosato, the ASEAN Trading Coordinator of Yamagata and Founder and Managing Director of LA DITTA Ltd. The beautiful arts and functional product designs of Yamagata were displayed throughout the exhibition period. To name a few, the Butterfly Stool designed by the famous Sori Yanagi and Oozora’s Kendamas were on display.

Concluding the presentation with the art of Yamagata’s popular Japanese sake was Mr Toshihiko Koseki, the Head of Yamagata Research Institute of Technology. The guests even had the opportunity to taste the luxurious sake, brought in just for the ceremony along with natural fruit juices.

Throughout the night, the guests enjoyed light refreshments by Chef Tim Meijers, trained at a Michelin Star restaurant prior to opening his fine catering company, Tim’s Fine Catering. Using air flown produce from Yamagata, the Chef served stunning visuals, delighting the palate of all.

The Yamagata Design Exhibition will run till Friday, 5th December where an exciting Kendama event will be taking place. Incredible tricks will be demonstrated by local enthusiasts Razi and Nasryand we can’t wait to catch them live!