Traditional Japanese crafts are sculpted through the masterful handiwork of skilled artisans, with a rich and complex history accompanying each item. Each region reflects their own unique culture and history in their textiles, dyed fabrics, ceramics, lacquerware, woodcrafts, glassware, and more.
SAGA
Lin Mt. Fuji Shot Glass
(Kinshodo)
The Mt. Fuji Shot Glass, from Kinshodo, has a metallic sheen that makes it hard to believe it was thrown from pure Arita porcelain. Featuring beautiful iridescent colours that each playfully reflect light, the shot glass can be purchased in Emerald, Purple, Blue, or Green.
Web: www.kinshodo-shop.co.jp/SHOP/
NIIGATA
Florist Shears
(Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten)
A pair of sharp and stylish flower shears created through a collaboration between “Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten,” a store featuring Japanese crafts, and “Kobayashi Seikyou (Sanjo City, Niigata),” an artisan house known for its blade craftsmanship. The shears are compact and easy to handle.
Web: www.nakagawa-masashichi.jp/shop/
KUMAMOTO
Buddhist Ise-style Persimmon Lacquered Fan
(Kurikawa Shoten)
The Kutami Persimmon Lacquered Fan, made exclusively in Kutami, Kumamoto, has been crafted by applying persimmon tannins to the washi (Japanese paper) of the fan. This strengthens the washi, making it durable and long-lasting, whilst also providing insect-repelling properties.
Web: kurikawa-uchiwa.shop/items/
TOKYO
Glass with Chequered Pattern
(Hidetaka Shimizu, Edo Kiriko Glass)
Edo Kiriko is a traditional craft where intricate pattern are cut into the surface of layered glass. The Edo Kiriko Tumbler has been “hand polished” by Shimizu, rather than being outsourced through a technique called “acid polishing.” The effect is a pristine glass, made with delicate care and effort.
Web: takumijapan.com/en-ww/products/
OKINAWA
Yaeyama Minsa Weave Casual Pouch in Taiyo Aya
(Azamiya)
Traditional Yaeyama Minsa weaving has been passed down for around 400 years. Using threads dyed with colours inspired by the nature of the Yaeyama Islands, this compact and convenient pouch has been woven by skilled artisans through traditional weaving techniques.
Web: www.thebecos.com/products/
ISHIKAWA
Two-inch Luck-bringing Cat
(Kamide Choemon Kiln)
A beckoning cat figurine, “maneki-neko,” made by Kamide Choemon Kiln, a renowned Kutaniware pottery studio. “Maneki-neko” are known for bringing good luck, prosperity, and business success to their owners. This charming figurine features vivid hand-painted designs.
Web: www.nakagawa-masashichi.jp/shop/
OKAYAMA
Azuma Tote Bag
(Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten)
The Azuma bag is a simple bag created by sewing a single piece of fabric along straight lines. It is said to have originated in the Edo period, when people resourcefully stitched together furoshiki wrapping cloths or tenugui towels to make carry bags.
Web: www.nakagawa-masashichi.jp/shop/
FUKUI
24-cm Round Tray
(Echizen Woodcraft, Shitsurindo)
This 24-centimetre round tray has been carved through traditional Echizen woodcraft techniques. Renowned for its beautiful wood grain, Echizen woodcraft is brought to life through the skilled craftsmanship of artisans who possess deep knowledge of wood and blade sharpening.
Web: shitsurindo-onlinestore.com/items/
