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AIR_JOnline Database of Artist in Residence Programs in Japan

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Outdoor Sound Sculpture ONKAI

  • Host organization

    ONKAI Steering Committee

  • Address

    249 Taketo, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun, Nara

  • Website

    https://onkai.jp/

Objective 1) Revitalizing the Community
To restore and support vibrant community life and local interaction in Taketo village, an area facing the challenges of depopulation.

2) Promoting Regional Development and Tourism
To contribute to the broader revitalization of Totsukawa Village by linking its activities with the area's wider tourism resources.

3) Cultural Contribution as a Sound Landmark
To serve as a "sound landmark" where sound, hearing, and nature interact harmoniously, delivering rich contemporary cultural and artistic experiences to the region's public spaces.
Organization activities Organizing events including competitions, residencies, and live performances in theater, music, art, and installations.
Founded in 2024
Background 2019:
Project launched as a sustainable effort to revitalize community life in Taketo village, which faces depopulation and marginalization. Under the advice of Shin Nakagawa (Osaka Metropolitan University) and Takuo Tamaki (Village Head), the outdoor sound sculpture initiative was started with German sculptor Lukas Kühne based on his manifesto.

2024 (Completion) / 2025:
The "ONKAI Steering Committee" was formed following the sculpture's completion in 2024 to advance the project on a continuous and public basis.
Location / Environment ●Kumano Kodo and Sacred Sites:
Located adjacent to the pilgrimage routes of the World Heritage Kumano Kodo, an area steeped in ancient prayer and historical context.

●Rich Nature and Serenity:
A tranquil setting surrounded by mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Kumano River (Totsukawa River), where visitors can immerse themselves in the sounds of nature.

●Hot Springs and Local Life:
A region where a historic hot spring culture—such as the Totsukawa Onsen Village—is richly integrated into the daily life of the community.
Contact ONKAI Steering Committee

239 Taketo, Totsukawa-mura, Yoshino-gun, Nara 647-1271, Japan
info@onkai.jp
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61592458438542&locale=ja_JP
https://www.instagram.com/onkai_official/

Facility information

Studio information

Available

Accommodations

Available

Presentation space

Available

Program Support

Application Period

Limited-time call

Location

There is no direct bus, taxi, or other public transportation to the site.
Access is available exclusively by private car or rental car.

Address (for GPS / Navigation):
Taketo Community Center, 239 Taketo, Totsukawa Village, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture

From central Osaka:
Approx. 3 hr 15 min – 3 hr 30 min by car (approx. 160 km / 100 miles)
From central Nagoya:
Approx. 3 hr 15 min – 3 hr 30 min by car (approx. 225 km / 140 miles)

Open calls

Currently there is no program available for application.