the People

Mika Ishii (photo left)

Principle curator and host for MOYA creative residence, Founder of NPO MOYA: Formally planner, researcher for Shiseido then account director for Shiseido Creative. Experience in marketing and advertisement assumed position in the corporate strategy department and was in charge of innovation research originating from in-house designers, participation in the Global Innovation Center projects, and corporate communication production. Now, freelance design producer, a member of Letters from Nowhere.
BA (French Literature) Waseda University, Master (Philosophy, Aesthetics) Gakushuin University

During my childhood, my family would escape Tokyo’s summer heat by retreating to my grandparents’ house in Kaneyama. My siblings, cousins, and I would sleep together on futons, spend afternoons on the engawa—the wooden veranda—and savor local delicacies. We spent our days playing in the river and fields, wandering the quaint streets of the small town, and eagerly anticipating the summer festival.

Years later, I find myself revisiting this beloved region through a new lens—exploring its specialty products and lifestyles. I cherish evenings reading in my grandfather’s rocking chair, tending the garden, chatting with neighbors, and marveling at the intricate rice straw crafts that have become a personal fascination.

Whenever you visit, the exquisite Mogami house, infused with the scent of Kaneyama cedar, stands as a sanctuary—an invitation to immerse yourself fully in the rhythm of nature. It’s a place that gently resets the mind, urging one to move forward with clarity and peace.

Takeshi Ishii (photo right)

Supporting curator and co-host for MOYA creative residence, also member of NPO MOYA: Architect/Creative director and member of “bluestudio”; an Architectural design and Realtor firm, renowned for its leading role in renovation and town development in Japan. Awarded frequently for GD awards and ROY awards. https://www.asahi.com/and/creators/ishiitakeshi/
BA (Design, Architecture) Musashino Art University

NPO MOYA

The facility is provided by NPO MOYA, a group of volunteers who share the interests and passion for Mogami, and wish to use their expertise and life experiences to enjoy, narrate, and encourage interaction in and outside of the region. Using the former Kishi family home, a landmark in the center of Kaneyama Town, as our base of operations, we will work in long-term collaboration with the local society to revitalize businesses and create a related population, contributing to the future town landscape.