Kitaakita City craftsman selected as "Contemporary Master Craftsman"

Ms. Narata Toshiko, a resident of Kitaakita City (affiliated with Akita Hachijo Hamanasu Koubou), has been awarded the 2025 Outstanding Craftsman (Contemporary Master Craftsman) Award.

This award is given to craftsmen selected from across the country who have outstanding skills and years of hard work.

As the sole successor to the traditional Akita Hachijo plant-dyed silk fabric, which has a history of over 230 years, Narada is contributing to the spread of the craft with his advanced technical skills and unique design expressions. Akita Hachijo has been designated an intangible cultural property by Akita Prefecture and is one of the traditional industries representing Kitaakita City.

The award ceremony was held in Tokyo on Monday, November 10th , and Narada received the award in recognition of his achievements. His skills and spirit will continue to contribute greatly to the preservation and development of the region's traditional culture.