The intricate tapestry of modern Japan is woven from threads of ancient tradition and the dynamism of a globalized economy. Nowhere is this more evident than in the intersection of traditional performing arts, labor conditions, and the burgeoning e-commerce market for fashion. Consider the case of the Nishijin-ori textile artisans in Kyoto. For centuries, these skilled craftspeople have produced exquisite silks and brocades using time-honored techniques passed down through generations. However, the rise of mass-produced clothing and the challenges of operating within a rapidly evolving digital landscape have presented significant hurdles. Many Nishijin-ori workshops struggle to maintain profitability, often operating with limited staff and precarious working conditions. The artisans, highly skilled but lacking significant business acumen, frequently find themselves vulnerable to exploitation. While their creations command premium prices in exclusive boutiques, a large portion of the profit often goes to intermediaries, leaving the artisans with meager earnings. In an attempt to address this imbalance, some Nishijin-ori workshops have embraced e-commerce. By establishing online stores, they can bypass intermediaries and sell their products directly to consumers, both domestically and internationally. This approach, however, comes with its own set of difficulties. Creating and managing an effective online presence requires technological skills and significant marketing investment, resources often unavailable to small, family-run workshops. The steep learning curve and the ongoing competition from larger, more established brands present formidable challenges. The situation highlights the complex interplay between tradition, labor practices, and modern business realities in contemporary Japan. The preservation of traditional crafts is not merely a matter of artistic heritage; it also involves ensuring fair labor conditions and creating sustainable economic models for the artisans involved. Finding a balance between upholding cultural treasures and navigating the competitive forces of the global market represents a crucial challenge for Japan's future. The question now becomes: How can Japan effectively support the Nishijin-ori artisans and other craftspeople facing similar challenges? This requires a multi-pronged approach, including investment in digital literacy training, support for the development of effective e-commerce strategies, and the implementation of policies that ensure fair compensation and protect the rights of workers in the creative industries.
1. According to the passage, what is the primary challenge faced by Nishijin-ori artisans in adapting to the modern economy?
2. What strategy are some Nishijin-ori workshops employing to increase their profitability and reduce reliance on intermediaries?
3. The passage suggests that the preservation of traditional crafts in Japan requires a multi-pronged approach. Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned as a component of this approach?
4. What is the main idea of the passage?