Toy Design Project in the Hinohara Toy Village Concept

An initiative to leverage the charm and forest resources of the region through woodworking and design

Abstract

This study reports on an industry-academia collaborative design project between J. F. Oberlin University, Hinohara Village, Nishitama County, Tokyo, and Tokyo Chainsaw Co. The project aims to promote wood education and increase regional value by utilizing the abundant forest resources of Hinohara Village and researching and developing wooden toys that take advantage of local characteristics. Students from Hayashi Design Laboratory will create 13 prototypes of wooden toys, three of which will be commercialized. The project has been covered by NHK and other major media, contributing to the promotion of Hinohara Village and its local resources.