Consul General Takahashi visited JASB President Emeritus Peter Grilli at Kominka Project Site
October 25, 2024
On Friday, October 18th Consul General Takahashi visited Mr. Peter Grilli, at the 250-year-old Kominka currently being installed in Belmont, Massachusetts. Kominka, which literally translates to "old house", are traditional Japanese farmhouses known for their wooden construction and thatched roofs. During the visit, Mr. Grilli provided comments on the building and construction site.
Mr. Grilli has a personal connection to Japan stemming from his upbringing; he was raised in Japan from the age of five. This early exposure to Japanese culture, language, and traditions has shaped his life and career and inspired a deep appreciation for the country and its culture. He has published several books and documentary films on Japan. He is currently working on a documentary about the relocation of the Kominka from where it was originally built in Shiga, Japan.
The Kominka is being reassembled using mostly original materials by a multicultural team including both Japanese and American architects and builders. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The building is a sole private property and may be used host private gatherings featuring traditional Japanese arts, including Sado (tea ceremony), Ikebana (flower arranging), and Japanese music and cuisine.
Mr. Grilli has a personal connection to Japan stemming from his upbringing; he was raised in Japan from the age of five. This early exposure to Japanese culture, language, and traditions has shaped his life and career and inspired a deep appreciation for the country and its culture. He has published several books and documentary films on Japan. He is currently working on a documentary about the relocation of the Kominka from where it was originally built in Shiga, Japan.
The Kominka is being reassembled using mostly original materials by a multicultural team including both Japanese and American architects and builders. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The building is a sole private property and may be used host private gatherings featuring traditional Japanese arts, including Sado (tea ceremony), Ikebana (flower arranging), and Japanese music and cuisine.