Witness tradition and rebellion intertwine through a gallery tour led by Tradition/Rebellion: Coming-of-Age Style in Kitakyushu, Japan exhibition co-curators, fashion director Yamaguchi Souta and Japan House London’s Simon Wright. From striking fur-trimmed kimono to gravity-defying hairstyles, explore the extraordinary world of this Japanese subculture.
In Kitakyushu in southwestern Japan, coming-of-age fashion is taken to another level. It is often outrageous and unconventional. Various contexts are intertwined within it: friendship groups from school reunite, participants reaffirm their local identity or thank the family who brought them up.
The exhibition centres on the spectacular attire worn at Kitakyushu’s coming-of-age ceremony. The eight young adults featured throughout the exhibition were selected by Yamaguchi Souta, who provides a wider exploration of the culture surrounding the event through this tour. The co-curators focus on the young people’s stories, clothing and hairstyles, as well as the creative processes, cultural influences and historical contexts that shape these striking forms of expression.
The exhibition Tradition/Rebellion is on display in the Gallery at Japan House London from 11 November 2026 to 18 April 2027.
About the Speaker
Yamaguchi Souta
Born in 1982 in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, he graduated from Bunka Fashion College, where he received the 22nd President’s Award. He began working as a stylist and fashion director in 2006. His career includes serving as Creative Director for KANSAI YAMAMOTO and curating a retrospective exhibition of fashion designer Kenzo Takada. He also designed the attire worn by staff at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games medal ceremonies.
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Image © Jonishi Yuka