The Crucible of Possibility on the Sea: Setouchi Design Conference - Volume 2, Ferry Edition (2022)

What will sustain Japan’s economy in the future? When we consider this question, the tourism industry begins to shine with renewed significance. The Setouchi Design Conference brings together a diverse group of participants—business leaders, designers, architects, editors, artists, investors, ryokan proprietresses, and monks—many of whom have deep ties to Setouchi, one of Japan’s richest regions in tourism resources. With a global perspective, they explore the future of tourism not only in Japan, but worldwide. This is not just a forum for intellectual discussion; it is a hands-on project that leads to real action. The first installment focused on revitalizing a historic ryokan. In its second phase, the theme is “ferries”—rethinking ferries not just as transportation, but as spaces for lodging. The project seeks new possibilities and directions for the future of tourism.