The New Japan – Issue 02: Setouchi

“THE NEW JAPAN” is a new magazine that highlights regional cultures throughout Japan.

THE NEW JAPAN is a publication by NOT A HOTEL Inc. dedicated to highlighting the diverse local cultures found throughout Japan. Through long-form features, photography, and illustrations, the magazine delves into the unique cultures and landscapes that flourish beyond Japan's major metropolitan areas, aiming to inspire readers to experience these locales for themselves.

The latest second issue focuses on the "Setouchi” area around the tranquil Seto Inland Sea—the coastal cities and the thousands of scattered islands. The region is rich in modern crafts, which have evolved from local traditions as well as a surprising mecca for Japanese modernist architecture.

Featured Content:

• Craig Mod on Revisiting the Inland Sea and Donald Richie’s The Inland Sea
• A Cultural Portrait of Okayama
• An Interview with Bjarke Ingels about his first completed Japanese project
• Aiya (Terroir): A New Star for Indigo Dyeing
• KAIHARA: Dyers to Fashion-Changing Denim
• Project BoleeGa: Bespoke Jeans
• New York’s Chowa and its Kiribako Made in Setouch
• Gerhard Richter’s Work on a Deserted Island in the Seto Inland Sea
• Onomichi’s Local Soft Drinks
• Traveling the scenic Kure Line
• Takamatsu, a Showcase for Modern Japanese Architecture

Participating Creators (in no particular order):
Ian Bennett / Ichii Nakamura / Tatsuya Tabii / Hinano Kimoto / Kenji Hall / Sam Holden / Sanae Sato / Craig Mod / Hisashi Ogawa / Johan Bävman / Michi Murakami / Tetsuo Kashiwada / Ayaka Takase / Kenji Asazuma/ Shigeo Okada