The New Guardians of Old Kyoto: Foreign Hands Revitalizing Endangered Machiya Techniques
Project Proposal: Preserving Kyoto’s Heritage through OJT
The greatest feature of this project proposal is inviting young adults from North America (in their 20s and 30s with an interest in architecture and culture) to Kyoto to acquire authentic Japanese architectural techniques through On-the-Job Training (OJT) under the guidance of local construction companies specializing in Kyo-machiya (traditional Kyoto townhouses).
🏠 Base of Operations (Headquarters)
Details: We will renovate a historic Kyo-machiya within Kyoto city to serve as both the base of operations and the residence (accommodation wing) for participants.
Impact: This effort is not merely about restoring a building; it directly contributes to the preservation of Kyoto’s historic landscape.
🛠️ Activities
Details: The young foreign participants will engage in hands-on practical experience as apprentices while living communally in the Machiya.
Impact: This goes beyond mere technical skill acquisition. They will deeply immerse themselves in Japanese life, language, and the entire culture from the perspective of a skilled craftsperson (shokunin).
⭐ Certification for Artisans (Craftspeople)
Details: To ensure the “visibility” of acquired skills, we will establish an artisan certification system to prove that the individual has achieved a certain standard of proficiency.
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