Kōtarō NISHIBORICEO and Director of Hiyoshiya / TCI Laboratory

Originally from Wakayama Prefecture, Kōtarō Nishibori began his career in public service as an interpreter in Canada before joining Hiyoshiya, his wife’s family business, where he became CEO in 2004 and now leads Kyoto’s last remaining traditional Japanese umbrella manufacturer. Guided by the company philosophy that “tradition is a succession of innovations,” upheld over five generations, Kōtarō Nishibori does more than preserve the traditional function of Japanese umbrellas: he actively develops new products and applications by drawing on the unique techniques and structures of these handcrafted umbrellas.

Through numerous collaborations with Japanese and international designers, artists, and architects, he has helped promote this craftsmanship in more than 15 countries. Since launching the TCI Laboratory project in 2012, he has also supported the overseas development and market expansion of traditional crafts and SMEs, helping more than 800 companies and artisans grow internationally while continuing his commitment to the transmission of traditional knowledge and expertise.