Japan, in spite of its relative scarcity in natural resources, is proud of its “human” resources. Japanese are in general of a high moral quality with a higher educational level. Japan has also preserved a distinct aesthetic sensibility and its traditions. The uniqueness of Japanese culture is well recognized.

At the same time, in this borderless world it became increasingly urgent to promote mutual understandings. We believe that the expressions which appeal to the sensibility will grow in its importance, and that Fashion which expresses its own time has a significant cultural role to play. “Fashion is the culture closest to the body”

Hanae Mori, who had chosen the career which deals with the western clothes, has pursued the expression of the beauty in Japanese Culture which communicates to the World. Her creative life, which is embodied in the Butterfly dancing in the air in the tune of “the East meets the West”, now spans 50 years. Hanae Mori was accepted as the member of la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne as the only Easterner, and for 27 years contributed with her unique creations. It was said that on the one hand she introduced the Japanese sense of beauty to the West, and on the other hand she introduced the craftsmanship of Haute Couture to Japan, thus acted as the bridge between Eastern and Western cultures. She has been invited to stage her fashion shows and hold her exhibitions throughout the world.

The Foundation was thus established to contribute to the development of Fashion culture, and to the cultural exchange, and to provide support for young gifted creators to join the global Fashion scenes utilizing the accumulated expertise of Hanae Mori acquired through her long distinguished career.