YOKOHAMA CIRCULAR DESIGN MUSEUM

The YOKOHAMA CIRCULAR DESIGN MUSEUM is a travelling museum where visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences of circular living through exhibitions and sales of services and products connected to the circular economy and local production for local consumption in Yokohama. Operated by Circular Yokohama, which promotes the circular economy within the city, the project began in February 2023 when the “qlaytion gallery” opened inside the Hoshiten qlay complex in Hodogaya Ward and hosted its first exhibition.

Its theme is “PLAYFUL CIRCULARITY – Let’s Play With the Circular Economy.” The exhibits are updated regularly and include upcycled goods and artworks made from Yokohama’s waste, locally themed foods, and other cleverly designed items and services that spark excitement.

The museum appears at various events focused on the circular economy and the SDGs, including the “Minato Mirai Circular Weekend.” Cooperating with local facilities and organizations, it not only mounts display but also offers upcycling art workshops, film screenings and other activities tailored to each venue’s size and purpose, ensuring an enjoyable experience for participants.

1. Integration with a web media platform enables you to see, touch and experience circularity

Leveraging its strength as a media platform, Circular Yokohama publishes interviews and project articles on its website that delve into the details, background and intentions behind each exhibit. Visitors can handle the real items in person at the museum and then rediscover the appeal of the region and the circular economy by reading the online articles.

2. A travelling museum that brings “experiences” and “encounters” to many places

As a mobile exhibition, the YOKOHAMA CIRCULAR DESIGN MUSEUM collaborates with companies and organizations to hold pop‑up exhibitions in diverse locations. By not limiting itself to one area, it increases exposure to circular initiatives while offering visitors fresh experiences and networking opportunities. Several events have also been held outside Yokohama, mainly around the Greater Tokyo Area, helping to showcase the city’s attractions more widely.

3. Exhibition fixtures made from upcycled materials

True to circular‑economy principles, the museum’s fixtures embody circularity. Wherever possible, nothing new is purchased: discarded solar panels are turned into tables, school scrap wood becomes DIY shelving, and empty drink cans are transformed into lanterns. Ideas gathered on the road and during interviews are flexibly incorporated to keep improving the exhibition.

Note: Because of the mobile nature of the museum, exhibits and fixtures vary by venue and date.