Why Do We Feel Both ‘Iki’ and ‘Wabi-Sabi’ in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka?
Why Do We Feel Both ‘Iki’ and ‘Wabi-Sabi’ in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka? Embracing Iki: The Thoughtful Development of Kagurazaka Kagurazaka is a neighborhood known for its ‘Iki (Sophisticated).’ The residents of Kagurazaka have established a town development plan called the “Kagurazaka Machizukuri Kensho,” which aims to create “The town of Iki where tradition and modernity meet – Kagurazaka.” The basic policies for town development include creating “a town where commerce and residential areas coexist,” “a town adorned with traditional charm,” and “a town that is enjoyable to stroll through.” Even the organization responsible for the town’s development is named the “NPO Iki-na Machizukuri Club” (NPO Sophisticated Town Development Club). Iki: The Timeless Elegance of Kagurazaka’s Edo and French Influences The concept of ‘Iki’ is an aesthetic that developed during the Edo period. Under restrictions such as luxury bans, a sophisticated urban culture emerged, characterized by understated elegance, like the Edo Komon (a type of traditional patterned fabric). ‘Iki’ refers to beauty that is simple yet exudes taste and individuality. Kagurazaka, a street built by the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, still retains its Edo-period layout and is a neighborhood steeped in Edo culture. The long-standing geisha district culture also remains. With the
