From ancient tradition to the highest technology in Japan

Incredible experiences and contrasts of a fascinating country, ranging from respect for millenary traditions to the very latest in technology. This has been the days of the group of professionals who are participating in the World Connections, in Japan.

Are immersed in this experience, professionals from renowned architecture offices and developers in Brazil, who ranked higher in the Connectarch – Brand Relationship Program Eliane, in 2021, how: Vasques and Cavinato, FG Empreendimentos, Embraed, Perkins + Will Architecture, JL Architecture, Dallo Empreendimentos, RDO Empreendimentos, Neon Concrete and Architecture, Patriani Construções and Grace Dantas Arquitetura.

Among the experiences lived over the days is the visit to the island of Odaiba, one of the most futuristic areas of Tokyo. This is a region that is on an artificial island that centuries ago served as a defense system for Tokyo., to protect the city from sea attacks. a century later, part of these fortifications were grounded, and became one of the most modern regions, colorful and attractive city. The architecture of several buildings in Odaiba is very eye-catching and stands out in the landscape.. There is also a replica of the Statue of Liberty in Odaiba., with 12 m high, a gift from the French government as a symbol of friendship between France and Japan.

In Japan there is a different view on the life cycle of materials, an understanding that anything can – and must – be reused, and nothing wasted. The seriousness with which the issue of garbage is treated is impressive and the results are a reflection of a extremely efficient system that manages to reuse 96% of the country's garbage. There are practically no rubbish bins on the streets. Every citizen is responsible for his own waste, taking it home and disposing of it responsibly and paying for the waste it generates. The streets are extremely clean.. Collection is selective and there is garbage that can be recycled and garbage that will be burned.

Another destination of the Connection was Ginza, recognized as one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the world and with one of the most expensive m² on the planet – US$22,000/m² -. There are the main world brands such as Louis Vuitton, Rolex, Dior, Channel and Salvatore Ferragamo. Ginza was named after the Mint, which was founded on the spot in 1612.

During this week of immersion in Japanese culture, the group also participated in a workshop on Kintsugi, that means “mend with gold”. Kintsugi is a ceramic and porcelain restoration technique that uses lacquer or glue mixed with gold dust., silver or platinum. The technique emerged in the 15th century when the shogun (highest military title bestowed by the Emperor, with great political power) Ashikaga Yoshimasa sent tea ceremony pottery to China for restoration. when she returned, the shogun did not appreciate the chinese technique with metallic staples and asked japanese craftsmen to develop another way to restore it. Rather than trying to disguise the flaws of the broken piece, craftsmen used urushi (japanese lacquer) with gold to glue the pieces together and make evident the parts that had been mended.

Another highlight of the experience was the tour to the Monte Fuji, considered the highest mountain on the island of Honshu and the entire Japanese archipelago. the active volcano, but low risk of eruption, It is one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan., often being depicted in artwork and photographs, and which receives numerous visits from climbers and tourists. Mount Fuji is a spiritual place, cultural icon and a geographical marvel. A true source of artistic inspiration.