The wooden masks sold at our store are made by Mr. Miyata, who has been a craftsman for 45 years.
I interviewed him and asked him about his thoughts on kagura and his message to people overseas.
I：interviewer
M：Mr. Miyata
I：Do you have any concerns other than your successor?
M：The year before last, I put an article in the newspaper saying that I was in trouble because I didn't have any paulownia logs.
Then, a person who used to make masks contacted us and offered us logs that had been dried for 10 years.
I：That is a reassuring ally.
M：I can use that tree right away. Before that, I used to go to the mountains, cut the tree, and let it dry for four years before using it.
Now, thanks to the dry raw wood provided, it is ready to use.
I：It is with such support that you are able to continue.
M：Yes, I am grateful. Without materials, I can't get by.
I：I didn't realize that there is such a difficult aspect.
As a final question, I would like to ask if you have a message for foreigners who come into contact with Japanese culture.
M：I would be happy if even foreigners could inherit this traditional Japanese culture.
There are only a few people who make masks here in Okayama. We would be happy if even foreigners could do it.
I：Then, you will be happy if more people become interested in this mask.
Thank you very much for your time today.
M：Thank you.
