Kyoji Second Generation
OIRI HYAKUTARO
大 入　百 太 郎

HyakutaroOiri

As the second-generation Hyakutaro Oiri, with the generational transition of Oiri Corporation, I have started a new journey, returning to the origins of craftsmanship as the successor of my father and mentor, the first-generation Hyakutaro Oiri.

From the perspective of an artisan who creates by hand and from the insights gained through years of solving complex issues in traditional industries, I deeply ponder what it means to create "good things, beautiful things, and things that last."

I aim to communicate the power of "things" themselves and my thoughts on "craftsmanship."

Comprehensive Production for Cultural Heritage Preservation
"When in Trouble, Call Oiri"

Are you familiar with the profession of Kyoshi, which dates back to the Nara period? The name originally referred to people who "transcribe sutras." Over time, as society evolved, the role of Kyoshi expanded to include tasks such as mounting, bookbinding, printing, and publishing, but it has consistently involved the creation of various forms of calligraphy and artwork. Today, in addition to these long-standing responsibilities, this profession has become indispensable for the restoration and preservation of valuable cultural properties. People from various fields come to me with questions like, "What should we do with this?" Acting as a sort of "consultation center for traditional industries," I have faced numerous challenges related to the preservation of traditional crafts: inheriting techniques, sourcing tools and materials, managing supply and demand, and more. Each time, I find a way to resolve these issues. "When in trouble, call Oiri." As a result, I have become an entity capable of providing comprehensive production solutions for matters related to cultural heritage preservation.
  • OIRI
  • HYAKUTARO
  • OIRI
  • HYAKUTARO

「今」 を生きる

職人 として

As an Artisan Living in the Presen


The number of people known as "mekiki" — those who can discern, use, and acquire "good things" — is steadily decreasing. With the decline in such "mekiki," the motivation of artisans to create "good things" has diminished, and it has become increasingly difficult to nurture successors. This has been the reality for quite some time now.
On the other hand, artisans themselves face numerous challenges. Artisans tend to focus heavily on preserving traditional techniques, often clinging to established methods. However, I strongly feel that now, from the artisan's perspective, it is essential to propose ideas for the future, utilizing new materials and techniques.

Profile Hyakutaro Oiri

1951 Born as the eldest son of the first-generation Hyakutaro Oiri.
1969 Joined Oiri Corporation.
2011 Awarded as an Excellent Technician in Kyoto Prefecture’s Traditional Industries.
2019 Received the "Contemporary Master Craftsman" award
2024 Re-launched as the second-generation Hyakutaro Oiri, Kyoshi (traditional artisan).