If you have traveled by Shinkansen this month, you may have come across a special feature on Toyama in ‘Nishi Navi’, the onboard magazine. Centered on the theme of “Toyama’s Dotoku” – the inherent virtue of the land and its people – the article explores the region’s spiritual and cultural landscape, including the deep connections between the philosophy of Tariki (other-power) that have long taken root in this area and the Mingei (Folk Crafts) Movement.

At Mizu to Takumi, we are committed to cherishing the culture and values that continue to live in Toyama and carrying them forward to the next generation. When we were introduced in a previous special feature of Nishi Navi last year, we shared our thoughts on the concept of “Dotoku.” We are delighted that this idea resonated so strongly with the editor and led to the current feature.

We hope that many people will visit Toyama and discover their own sense of “Dotoku” through encounters with this land and its people.

In addition to Moritosha and Rakudo-An, the article also introduces Matsui Kigyo, the textile workshop responsible for the silk fabrics that line the walls and ceilings of the “Silk Room” at Rakudo-An.

If you are traveling by Shinkansen this month, we invite you to pick up a copy of Nishi Navi and enjoy the feature!