NAKED and Ryotaro Muramatsu’s interactive art installation, the DANDELION PROJECT, is coming to Umeda, Osaka. The project aims to connect people around the world, stressing the importance of world peace. Those wanting to participate may do so from October 7 until October 9 at Umekita Sotoniwa Square.
In July 2020, Umekita Sotoniwa SQUARE opened under a unique premise–it would be open for 1,000 days only. The outdoor area was inspired by cities of the future, featuring plenty of green space. The DANDELION PROJECT fits in perfectly with this concept, using modern technology and networking to create art that also serves as a universal prayer for peace. This is the second time the work has been exhibited in Osaka–it was shown in Nakanoshima during the Osaka Hikari no Renaissance 2021 event last December.
The DANDELION PROJECT is inspired by the idea of world peace and hopes to help transcend barriers and connect people in an increasingly divided world. So far, it has appeared in 25 locations–19 in Japan and six abroad. In Japan, it has popped up at Tokyo Tower, Nijo Castle, and other historical sites. Abroad, it has been shown in Paris, Singapore, San Francisco, and Shanghai. The piece aims to bring about change by planting (or installing) dandelion-inspired art around the world, while it invites people visiting these dandelion exhibits to send their prayers for peace as a digital flower in real-time.
The exhibition will also be a satellite venue for NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO, a next-gen art project allowing guests to experience Kyoto virtually from September 15 until December 25, 2022.
Information
NAKED – DANDELION
Running: October 7 – October 9, 2022
Venue: Umekita Sotoniwa Square
*Open daily during event period
Hours: 18:00-21:00
Entry: Free
Official Site: https://sotoniwa-uk.com/
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Tomioka Silk Fantasia ~Festival of Silk~, an Exciting Event Combining Video, Music, and Fashion, to Be Held at Tomioka Silk Mill, a World Cultural Heritage Site!
An incredible event combining video, music, and fashion, Tomioka Silk Fantasia ~Festival of Silk~ will be held at the Tomioka Silk Mill, a National Treasure and World Cultural Heritage Site. The event will be held with support from the city of Tomioka, Gunma Prefecture, and will run for approximately two weeks starting on October 6, 2023.
Guests will be able to enjoy the NAKED Yorusampo -Tomioka- and Tomioka Silk Fantasia as they explore the historic site. The special event was directed by renowned international director Junya Yamada in collaboration with NAKED Inc., which continues to captivate audiences with its digital artworks including projection mapping and illuminations.
<NAKED Yorusampo™ -Tomioka->
'NAKED Yorusanpo™' is an outdoor immersive night walk concept by NAKED. Previously, the unique event has been held in various regions, including the Ikaho Onsen town in Gunma Prefecture and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Zuiganji Temple in Matsushima, Miyagi Prefecture, to promote the nighttime economy of different areas. Even in tourist destinations where businesses tend to close early at night, this event breathes new life into the city's landmarks through illuminations and projection mapping, allowing tourists to make the most of their evenings and supporting measures for dispersed tourism.
Experience NAKED's grand projection mapping, lantern art, and Flower Fortune while enjoying the night at Tomioka Silk Mill, a national treasure and UNESCO World Heritage site.
＜Tomioka Silk Fantasia＞
On October 14 and 15, guests can enjoy live music and a fashion show on a special stage in front of the Tomioka Silk Mill’s West Cocoon Warehouse. Live music performers include DE DE MOUSE, a composer, producer, and DJ from Gunma Prefecture; bala, a Tokyo-based creative collective of female artists and creators; and Yasushi Yamabe, a taiko drummer active both in Japan and abroad.
DE DE MOUSE
bala
Taishi Yamabe
Visitors will also be able to enjoy a tour of the area between Jyoshu-Tomioka Station and Tomioka Silk Mill in cooperation with local restaurants and facilities. Please come experience a fantastic night in Tomioka City, where silk and fantasy are woven together in a fusion of images, music, and fashion, as if you have entered a different dimension.
Contents
・NAKED Distance Lanterns®
Introducing NAKED's unique art-inspired lanterns, born during the COVID-19 pandemic. When you take a leisurely stroll with one of these lanterns in hand, the ground comes alive with colors and patterns unique to each location, allowing you to be a part of the mesmerizing light display.
For this event, inspiration was drawn from the location of Tomioka Silk Mill in Gunma Prefecture, which has strong ties to the art of natural dyeing. As a result, five color variations will be available: red, blue, pink, green, and yellow, all inspired by the vibrant hues of plant-based dyes.
*Lantern rentals: ¥500 per turn (Tax Included)
・NAKED Flower Fortune®
Introducing the wildly popular art fortune-telling, NAKED Flower Fortune®, which even ranked high in domestic rapid retweets on X (formerly Twitter). Choose your favorite flower from a variety of colors and shapes, and you'll encounter the perfect message for that moment. The flower ornaments attached to the fortune can be transformed into art by tying them to a wooden branch to make the flowers bloom, making them a great souvenir to take home as a keepsake.
*Price: ¥500 each (Tax Included)
・Tomioka Silk Mill West Cocoon Warehouse
The highlight of this event is the massive projection mapping show on the stage of the national treasure, Tomioka Silk Mill West Cocoon Warehouse, spanning approximately 45 meters in width. As the giant silk wraps around the building, the lush flora of Tomioka bursts forth. After enjoying the changing seasons of nature, step into a nostalgic world featuring retro signs and lanterns. Experience the unique and culturally rich presentation that is characteristic of Tomioka's deep historical heritage.
・Tomioka Silk Fantasia
A special event will unfold at the Tomioka Silk Mill World Heritage site. Come enjoy an event featuring artistic direction by renowned director Junya Yamada, a mesmerizing live performance by DE DE MOUSE, a high-art fashion show that seamlessly harmonizes with live music, and a powerful taiko drum performance by Yasushi Yamabe. Additionally, guests can enjoy an energetic performance by the creative collective girls group bala. Projection mapping will enhance the space, adding even more charm to the beautiful Tomioka Silk Mill, where history and the future intersect. From Gunma to the world, immerse yourself over the course of one special night where various cultures can come together to exchange unique experiences and celebrate.
・Tomioka Silk Mill East Cocoon Warehouse Illumination
The Tomioka Silk Mill East Cocoon Warehouse World Heritage site is illuminated, allowing visitors to savor its unique nighttime beauty that differs entirely from daytime. Enjoy the enchanting and fantastical nighttime scenery that you wouldn't typically be able to see.
・The Historic Nirazuka Silk Mill Illumination
The historic Nirazuka Silk Mill is illuminated, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy its beauty in a way that differs from daylight. Enjoy this enchanting and fantastical nighttime scenery that you wouldn't typically be able to see.
・Tomioka Night Gourmet Stroll
A collaborative event with "Tomioka Silk Fantasia - Festival of Silk." We introduce dining and souvenir shops around Tomioka Silk Mill that are open during the event period. Enjoy delicious local cuisine unique to Tomioka.
Presale tickets are now available from ZAIKO and Rakuten Ticket.
Additional information will be announced in the future.
Information
Tomioka Silk Fantasia ~Festival of Silk~
[Schedule]
<NAKED Yorusanpo™ -Tomioka->
October 6~8 / 13~15, 18:00~20:00
<Tomioka Silk Fantasia>
October 14 / 15, 18:00~20:00
<Venue>
<NAKED Yorusanpo™ -Tomioka->
Tomioka Silk Mill, Former Nirazuka Silk Mill, Shirukuru Square Gazebo (In front of City Hall)
<Tomioka Silk Fantasia>
Special stage in front of the Tomioka Silk Mill’s West Cocoon Warehouse
[Fees]
<NAKED Yorusanpo™ -Tomioka->
Viewing Ticket (Standing): ¥1,500 (Tax Included) *Included in event fee on October 14 & 15
<Tomioka Silk Fantasia>
Presale (Unreserved Seats): ¥4,500 (Tax Included) / Presale (Standing): ¥3,500 (Tax Included)
<Shared>
NAKED Distance Lanterns®: ¥500 (Tax Included) / NAKED Flower Fortune®: ¥500 (Tax Included) / Local Discount *1 / Student Discount *2
*Local Discount *1
・Locals can receive ¥1,000 cash back at the venue by purchasing a ticket and presenting an official ID that verifies their address on the day of the event. Photocopies will not be accepted.
・Limited to those who purchase tickets on the day of the event (Cannot be handled at a later date).
・If you cannot present an ID or proof of address, you will not be eligible for a refund.
*Student Discount
・Must show proof of age (official ID for elementary school students, student ID for junior high and high school students) to receive ¥1,000 cash back at the venue. Photocopies will not be accepted.
・If you cannot present a valid ID, you will not be eligible for a refund.
[Ticket Agencies]
ZAIKO (Digital Tickets only): https://tomiokasilkfantasia.zaiko.io/item/359609
Rakuten Ticket: https://r-t.jp/tomiokasilkfantasia[Performers]
DE DE MOUSE / bala / Taishi Yamabe[Contents]
Projection mapping, fashion show, live music and DJ, illumination, local business participation, etc.[Sponsors]
Tomioka City / Tomioka Silk Mill World Heritage RUNWAY Executive Committee[Co-Host]
Tomioka City Tourism Association[Planning and Production]
Channel47 / ASOBISYSTEM[Overall Direction]
David J Production[Spatial Direction]
NAKED / growB Emotions[Performers]
DE DE MOUSE / bala / Taishi Yamabe[Contents]
Projection mapping, fashion show, live music and DJ, illumination, local business participation, etc.
[Sponsors]
Tomioka City / Tomioka Silk Mill World Heritage RUNWAY Executive Committee
[Co-Host]
Tomioka City Tourism Association
[Planning and Production]
Channel47 / ASOBISYSTEM
[Overall Direction]
David J Production
[Spatial Direction]
NAKED / growB Emotions
[Video Direction]
Kohei Taki (Only on the 14th/15th)
[Official Website]
https://tomiokasilkfantasia.jp
[Social Media]
Instagram (@tomiokasilkfantasia): https://www.instagram.com/tomiokasilkfantasia/
X (Formerly Twitter) (@silkfantasia): https://twitter.com/silkfantasia
◼︎About Junya Yamada (David J.PRODUCTION)
Junya Yamada presented the stage production “THE SAKE” at the world’s largest theater festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and earned a 5-star rating. In recent years, he has expanded his activities to Asia and served as the overall director for the mega fashion show “TMALL COLLECTION” by China’s largest e-commerce site, TMALL, which is part of the Alibaba Group.
In Japan, Junya Yamada has been involved in various large-scale entertainment productions, including “Tokyo Hanabi Taikai EDOMODE,” “Hatsune Miku × Kodo Special Live,” and the stage production “INSPIRE Onmyoji,” starring Takao Osawa. His work spans a wide range of fields, including traditional performing arts, music events, fireworks displays, combat sports, theater, and cultural events, showcasing the diversity of his creative endeavors.
David J.PRODUCTION: https://davidjpro.com/
◼︎About NAKED, INC.
Founded in 1997 by Ryoitaro Muramatsu, a creative company known for its dedication to the philosophy of ‘Core Creative, Total Creation, and Borderless Creativity.’ Operating across various genres, the company has been actively engaged in a wide range of activities. In recent years, they have been creating diverse experiences that blend the realms of the real and the virtual. Their work spans across art, entertainment, culture, tradition, education, music, urban development, food, sports, and every facet of life, generating new experiences and value.
Starting in 2022, they have embarked on a project called ‘NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO,’ focusing on Kyoto’s metaverse and AR/VR initiatives to deliver cultural expression and art experiences that bridge the virtual and the real.
Some of their notable projects include the Tokyo Station Projection Mapping ‘TOKYO HIKARI VISION,’ the immersive flower art exhibition ‘NAKED FLOWERS’ held at world heritage sites like Nijo Castle and in cities like Tokyo and Hong Kong, the music experience ‘HUMANOID DJ’ created by artificial intelligence (AI), the experiential restaurant ‘TREE by NAKED yoyogi park,’ and ‘Sakura Night Garden at Shinjuku Gyoen’ among others.
NAKED, INC.: https://naked.co.jp
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HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE, a Collaboration Between Hot Topic & Studio Ghibli, Gets Pop-Up Store at Shinsaibashi PARCO
Last year, the HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE collaboration appeared at AF Gallery in Harajuku from August 10 until August 28, garnering massive acclaim from fans. The collection is now being sold at Shinsaibashi PARCO until March 12, 2023.
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE is a Studio Ghibli-inspired apparel collection by the popular American counterculture chain Hot Topic. Bringing more Japanese culture to the ongoing Studio Ghibli collaboration launched in 2014, Hot Topic stores began selling original items produced by nine Japanese creators and brands, as well as some original American items produced by Hot Topic’s executive designers.
The lineup of Japan-original items includes T-shirts, tote bags, and other items featuring exclusive artwork by up-and-coming creators. These items depict beloved characters from Studio Ghibli’s works, as well as logos created for the collaboration. Fans won’t want to miss grabbing these unique items!
Details on the Previous HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE Pop-Up Store: https://www.moshimoshi-nippon.jp/ja/625747
Information
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE
Running: February 23 – March 12, 2023
Hours: 10:00-20:00
Venue: Shinsaibashi PARCO B1F Pop-Up Space (1-8-3 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo-ku, Osaka)
Official Site: https://ghibli-harajukucollective-ec.com
Online Store (Open until March 31, 2023): https://ec.ghibli-harajukucollective-ec.com
HARAJUKU COLLECTIVE Official SNS:
Instagram: @harajuku_collective
(https://www.instagram.com/harajuku_collective）
Twitter: @harajuku_collect (https://twitter.com/harajukucollect)
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Atarashii Gakko! will hold solo concerts at Zepp venues in Tokyo and Osaka in April and May of 2023. These performances will be held almost a year after the girls held their solo concert at Zepp DiverCity in Tokyo last May. This year’s events will be held at Zepp Osaka Bayside on April 30 and Zepp Shinjuku in Tokyo on May 2. ATARASHII GAKKO! - HANAKO (Official Music Video)
ATARASHII GAKKO! - Pineapple Kryptonite (Official Music Video) Information
Atarashii Gakko! at Tokyo & Osaka Zepp
-We’re working on some amazing new songs and we’re dying for everyone to see our newest evolution (Tentative title)-
April 30, 2023 – Zepp Osaka Bayside
May 2, 2023 – Zepp Shinjuku (Tokyo)
Fan’s Presale Tickets (Starting January 1)
https://www.fansnet.jp/leaders -
From December 10 until December 18, 2022, creative company NAKED will hold NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO at Ninna-ji! The event is part of a larger next-generation art project being held around Kyoto until Christmas Day. This exhibition marks the first metaverse-centered event at Ninna-ji, and guests will be able to enjoy a virtual fashion show in collaboration with Jotaro Saito, a kimono designer from Kyoto. Participants will begin by creating their own avatar by snapping a photo of their face. After that, they will be able to choose a kimono by Saito to use as clothing for their avatar before taking to the runway with other visitors from all around Japan. NAKED’s goal is to bring traditional Japanese kimono culture into the digital space, and the company believes that this is only the beginning. In the future, NAKED hopes to bring other artists into the metaverse as well. NAKED Distanced Lanterns
NAKED Tsukubai Five-Storied Pagoda Projection Mapping DANDELION PROJECT Virtual Fashion Show Limited Edition Paper Goshuin This year’s event also includes the DANDELION PROJECT, popular with art fans around the world. Created by Ryotaro Muramatsu, the art project has appeared in a number of towns and cities around the world, inviting participants to create flowers and send them around the globe digitally as a hope for peace. Visitors can use their smartphones to send dandelion fluff digitally to other participants around the world, sharing a wish for world peace. This year, the participatory art piece was installed in the main temple. Why not visit this stunning exhibition in Kyoto this winter? Information
NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO Ninna-ji
Venue: Ninna-ji (Five-storied Pagoda, Main Temple)
Running: December 10 – December 18, 2022
*No admission on December 17 due to a private event.
Hours: 17:30-21:30 *Last entry at 21:00
Official Site: https://garden.naked.works/kyoto/ -
Creative company NAKED has announced TOKYO TOWER CITY LIGHT FANTASIA ~2022 Winter~, an event bringing some incredible projection mapping technology to the main deck of the legendary Tokyo landmark. The event will start on November 18 and will invite guests to enjoy an illuminated winter night from far above the city.
*Concept Image NAKED has created some unique night-viewing experiences at Tokyo Tower in the past, combining the already beautiful cityscape with some new and exciting graphics themed for each season. For winter 2022, butterflies will take to the chilly night sky one after another, creating a show like no other for its three-minute span. This also serves as a great photo opportunity! Enjoy Tokyo as it begins to shine for the holiday season! Information
TOKYO TOWER CITY LIGHT FANTASIA ～2022 Winter～
Venue: Tokyo Tower Main Deck 2F, North Floor
Running: November 18, 2022 – February 12, 2023
Hours: 18:00~Close
Admission: Guests can enjoy the event by paying the standard price to visit the observation deck.Official Site: https://www.tokyotower.co.jp/
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From December 10 until December 25, the Light and Food Ensemble event will be held in the garden of the Kyoto National Museum. A new projection mapping show featuring enormous flowers will be shown on the wall of the Meiji Kotokan Hall, unchanged since its opening in 1897. The history of Kyoto will take center stage, however–NAKED is only there to make it all the more impressive. NAKED will also collaborate with Kojima Shouten for the first time, decorating the venue with the local company’s famous lanterns.
At the venue, local shops from Kyoto will be selling sweets to guests. Come enjoy Kyoto in a whole new way during this exclusive winter event! Information
Light and Food Ensemble
Running: December 10 – December 25, 2022
Hours: 18:00-21:30 (Last entry at 21:00)
Light and Food Ensemble ~Evening Flower Banquet Directed by NAKED~
Venue: Kyoto National Museum
Tickets / Official Site: https://ensemblekyoto.com/