Explore traditional Japanese kite making in this documentary podcast featuring Mr. Ogawa, a 4th-generation master artisan in Tokyo. Discover the 150-year history of the Ogawa Kite Shop near Morishita and Kiyosumi-shirakawa, where the ancient Edo-period craft of “Tako-e” (kite painting) meets modern Japanese culture.

In this English-dubbed episode, we dive into the technical mastery of splitting bamboo ribs and selecting the perfect washi paper to ensure stability and grace in the sky. Mr. Ogawa explains the evolution of kite designs—from heroic Ukiyo-e warriors to modern cats and mythical Kappas—and shares the secret history of why kites were once banned in Japan.

Whether you are a fan of Japanese craftsmanship, a traveler looking for hidden gems in Koto-ku, or a history buff, join us inside this legendary workshop to explore the art of the Japanese kite.

Chapters:

· 00:00 Documentary Introduction

· 00:36 Meeting Mr. Ogawa: “Ohayou Gozaimasu”

· 01:03 The History of Japanese Kites (794–1185)

· 01:20 Why Kites Were Originally Called “Squid” (Ika)

· 01:34 The Shogunate’s Ban and the Shift from “Ika” to “Tako”

· 02:11 Kites Around the World: Chinese Dragons vs. European Designs

· 02:42 Materials: The Importance of Bamboo and Washi Paper

· 03:07 Family Legacy: The Ogawa Family History since the Meiji Era

· 03:55 The Joy of Flying: Watching the Sky

· 04:23 Memories of the Kite-Making Workshop

· 04:42 Mythical Designs: The Kappa and Other Creatures

· 04:58 Traditional Tako-e: Ukiyo-e, Warrior Paintings, and Artistic Evolution

· 05:50 Modern Designs: From Pandas and Dogs to Deities

· 06:09 Workshop Dynamics and the Challenges of Flying in the City

· 08:40 The Rise of International Visitors and New Trends

· 08:51 Changing Demographics: The Growing Popularity Among Women

· 09:11 The Golden Era: Producing 20,000 Kites a Year

· 09:26 The Impact of 1965: Plastic Kites from America

· 10:30 Re-opening in 2006 and the History of the Shop

· 11:00 A Special Memory: The Student from Korea

· 11:35 Final Information: Connecting with Future Customers

Ogawa Kite Shop photos and contact information for ordering kites:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064141416033

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Japanese Kite Making Master Ogawa | (English Audio)