Events
Notice of the Public Recording for the 1st and 2nd Sessions of the World Forum on Japanese Culture
Applications are now closed.
2025.05.31(Sat) 13:00 - 16:00
Overview
Applications are now closed.
We live in an era of competition, facing numerous global challenges such as the expansion of the global economy, environmental destruction, and rapid population growth. As we move further into the 21st century, it is essential that society undergo a paradigm shift—from an era of competition to one of cooperation focusing on a “logic of life” and the “safety of life,” values that nurture both nature and the social environment. This shift signals the arrival of an era defined by knowledge and harmony.
The forum invites distinguished guests from both Japan and abroad who are active at the forefront of traditional performing arts, crafts, contemporary art, music, science, and sports. Through lectures and discussions, they will explore the unique characteristics of Japanese culture from diverse perspectives. At the heart of Japanese culture and craftsmanship lies a worldview that values harmony between nature and human society—an outlook that resonates universally across nations and cultures. In particular, the theme of “coexistence between nature and society” stands out as a key concept for addressing the critical issues facing our world today. To realize this vision, it is crucial to elevate the global appreciation of Japanese cultural values—especially within the international community and in the United States. This is one of the forum’s central objectives.
The forum sessions will be recorded and translated into English, French, Spanish, Simplified Chinese, and Thai. These recordings will be distributed worldwide through the official website of the Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies at Harvard University and that of MOA Museum of Art. The primary audience includes ministries, universities, museums, and research institutions—approximately 20 organizations worldwide—as well as researchers, students, and intellectuals with an interest in Japanese culture. Moreover, we hope to reach an even broader public audience not only in Japan, but across the world.
It is MOA Museum of Art’ intension to launch the World Forum on Japanese Culture with Harvard University, the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan, and Japan Arts Council as co-organizers. Through this forum, we aim to reaffirm the potential international role of Japanese culture and to share a vision of a sustainable civilization grounded in a deep respect for culture.
Date
Saturday, May 31, 2025, 13:00–16:00
Venue
Program Overview
First Session
Special speech by Imperial Princess Akiko of Mikasa,entitled “The essence of Japanese aesthetics”
Second Session
Keynote lecture on Japanese culture and its uniqueness delivered by Masatomo Kawai
Roundtable participants
Masatomo Kawai, Yukio Lippit,Kazumi Murose, and Tokugo Uchida
Speakers
Imperial Princess Akiko of Mikasa
Masatomo Kawai（Professor Emeritus, Keio University）
Yukio Lippit（Professor, Harvard University）
Kazumi Murose（lacquer artist, holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property in the category of Makie）
Tokugo Uchida（Director, MOA Museum of Art）
Movie
The forum will be made available for viewing at a later date. Details regarding the streaming platform and schedule will be updated once confirmed.
How to Apply
Applications are now closed.
If you wish to attend the public recording, please complete the attached application form and send it to the following email address:
Secretariat of the World Forum on Japanese Culture
wfc-admin@moaart.or.jp
Important Notes
①Admission to the public recording is free of charge. However, a museum admission fee is required to enter MOA Museum of Art.
General: ¥2,000 / University & High School Students: ¥1,400 / Junior High School Students and younger: Free / Persons with disabilities: Free
②If the number of applications exceeds the available seating, participants will be selected by lottery. Only selected applicants will be notified.
③Seats cannot be reserved or specified in advance.
④Photography and audio recording using mobile phones or other devices are strictly prohibited.
Forum Information
| Organizers | Department of History of Art and Architecture, Harvard University MOA Museum of Art Japan Arts Council Agency for Cultural Affairs, Japan |
| Cooperation | Japan Kōgei Association |
| With the support of | Atami City |
