PreserveBreakTranscend

Kyoto Machiya Restoration Project

Transforming a 300-year-old machiya into a sanctuary for future artisans

Current Funding

¥28,750,000

Target Amount

¥50,000,000

57% Funded342 Backers
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342

Backers

45

Days Left

57%

Funded

The Story

In a quiet alley of Kyoto stands a machiya that has witnessed 300 years of history. A place where generations of artisans honed their craft and shared Japanese beauty with the world. But now, this historic building faces an existential crisis.

We don't just want to restore this machiya - we want to breathe new life into it. As a "living cultural asset" where traditional craftsmen gather, pass on their skills, and create innovation.

"Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire"- Gustav Mahler

This project is a bridge connecting Japanese traditional crafts to the future. Your support will become the foundation that nurtures the creativity of next-generation artisans.

Rewards

Special experiences crafted with gratitude for your support

Bamboo Tier

¥10,000

Your name eternally inscribed as a patron of Japanese craftsmanship.

  • Digital certificate of appreciation
  • Monthly newsletter updates
  • Access to online events

156 backers

Popular

Pine Tier

¥50,000

Experience the heart of Japanese tradition with exclusive access.

  • All Bamboo tier benefits
  • Limited edition craft piece (signed)
  • Virtual workshop tour
  • 1-on-1 virtual tea session with artisan

89 backers

Plum Tier

¥100,000

Bring the elegance of Kyoto tradition into your daily life.

  • All Pine tier benefits
  • One-day workshop experience in Kyoto
  • Custom-made craft piece
  • Annual VIP membership
  • Invitation to machiya completion ceremony

42 backers

2 left

Cherry Blossom Tier

¥500,000

Like eternal cherry blossoms, your legacy blooms forever.

  • All Plum tier benefits
  • Private tea ceremony at machiya (up to 10 guests)
  • Artisan visit for private workshop
  • Lifetime VIP status
  • Name plaque in the restored machiya
  • Bi-annual exclusive collection preview

8 backers

Master Artisans

Masters who preserve tradition while creating new value

Sotatsu Yamada

Gold Leaf Craft

40 years experience

Tradition is continuous innovation. Passing skills to the next generation is my mission.

Misaki Sato

Kyo-Yuzen Dyeing

25 years experience

Each piece carries a thousand years of Kyoto's aesthetic consciousness.

Ryoma Tanaka

Bamboo Craft

35 years experience

Bamboo is alive. I create forms while listening to its voice.

Project Timeline

February 2025

Crowdfunding Launch

Project kickoff

April 2025

Funding Close

Target achievement

June 2025

Renovation Begins

Machiya restoration starts

December 2025

Workshop Opens

Artisan workshops established

March 2026

Grand Opening

Full opening ceremony

Frequently Asked Questions

Create the Future Together

Your support becomes the bridge connecting Japanese traditional crafts to the next generation. Join the project now and become part of history.

Crowdfunding | SOWAKA - Preserving Japanese Craftsmanship