Joint Research Projects

Fundamental Research on Functional Analysis of Mingu

This is a basic study to explore ways of categorizing the functions of mingu that were invented to meet the needs of traditional lifestyles and used over generations in a variety of forms.
In other words, this research will raise anew the question of “what are the functions of mingu?” and take on the long-standing challenge of categorizing these functions. Based on quality data on mingu collections accumulated up till now, the functions of individual mingu will be identified and sorted, thereby revealing the relation of these with structures, materials and forms. We will endeavor to analyze the functions of mingu and propose a new way of functional classification for future studies.
By advancing this study, we are aiming to establish a new method to search for mingu by use and purpose, and not by name, among the vast collections gathered throughout Japan. The new findings can be used to compare overseas mingu beyond linguistic barriers and to identify the functions of archeological finds.

  Name Specialty Affiliation
PL KAMINO Yoshiharu Folklore, Mingu Studies ex-Musashino Art University
PM MAJIMA Shunichi Mingu Studies, The Study of Tools, Architectural History, History of Shipbuilding TEM Kenkyujo
PM SANO Kenji Folklore Kanagawa University
PM YAMADA Masahisa Research on Wooden Tools from Archeological Excavations and Experimental Archaeology University Education Center, Tokyo Metropolitan University
PM YAMAKAWA Yukinori Folklore, Cultural Heritage Mt.Fuji World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka
RC KAWANO Kazuaki Folklore Nanpo Minzoku Bunka Kenkyujo
RC MIYAMOTO Yaeko Mingu Studies The Society for Mingu of Japan
RC NABETA Naoko Folklore Thang Long University, Vietnam
RC SASAKI Takeo Folklore, Mingu Studies The Folklore Society of Fukushima 

PL-Project leader PM-Project member RC-Research cooperator

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Kanagawa University
International Center for Folk Culture Studies