On 29 March 2025 (Sat), a new cultural tourism facility, CASA stella, was opened in the renovated Matsui Residence, a 100-year-old former washi raw materials wholesaler in the Kawaramachi area of Gifu City.
A new cultural tourism hub where tradition and innovation merge under the theme of ‘light’.
CASA stella’ will be born as a centre for connecting traditional crafts to the future under the three themes of “light”: the Gifu wagasa umbrella, which accounts for nearly 70% of Japan’s wagasa production; the Gifu lantern, the most famous Obon lantern; and “AKARI”, the lighting created by world-famous sculptor Isamu Noguchi in collaboration with Gifu lantern craftsmen.
Experience Gifu's culture through a wide variety of shops and services
Wagasa CASA
The only shop in the country specialising in Gifu wagasa, with nearly 60 wagasa on display and for sale at any one time, conveying the beauty of Gifu wagasa along with the stories of its craftsmen. The shop aims to be a place that not only sells but also connects wagasa craftsmen with buyers and conveys the craftsmen’s thoughts and feelings.
AKARI Gallery
Permanent gallery of AKARI, designed by Isamu Noguchi. Visitors can admire the light sculpture made of Japanese paper and bamboo up close. This is a space where visitors can experience the fascination of AKARI, which has been described as ‘light reminiscent of sunlight’.
OZEKI Kawaramachi gallery
Gallery of Gifu lanterns by Ozeki Corporation, founded in 1891. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of lanterns made using traditional techniques. Part of the history of AKARI, made using techniques unchanged since the time of Isamu Noguchi’s visit, is also presented.
ORGAN Kimono
Rental and dressing service for retro and cute antique kimonos from the Showa period. You can stroll around the old streets in kimono. If you rent a kimono with a Japanese umbrella, you can also enjoy taking pictures in the townscape that has continued since the Edo period.