Nanbu Ironware

Iron products produced primarily in Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, with over 400 years of history. Particularly known for iron kettles (tetsubin) worldwide. Sand casting enables intricate decorations, with fine surface textures creating beautiful boiling water. Iron dissolves from the kettle, softening water, making it beloved by tea enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers. Registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Copper craft products produced in Takaoka, Toyama, with notable items including tea kettles, incense burners, and Buddhist implements. Continuing from the early Edo period with advanced casting techniques, it is highly valued domestically and internationally, designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property.

Copperware produced in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture with Edo period traditions. Includes kettles, flower vases, and Buddhist altar fittings. Advanced casting techniques enable intricate metalwork. Designated as National Traditional Craft.

Traditional cast iron products produced in Morioka and Oshu, Iwate Prefecture. Developed under Nanbu clan patronage in the 17th century, the tetsubin iron kettle is its signature product. Water boiled in a tetsubin is said to taste smoother and provide iron supplementation. In recent years, colorful cast iron teapots have become extremely popular overseas, particularly in France.

Ironware produced in Morioka and Oshu, Iwate Prefecture. Manufacturing continues from the 17th century, producing tea kettles, teapots, and daily utensils. Characterized by thick iron walls and lustrous black surfaces. Valued for high heat conductivity, it remains popular today.

A lacquerware craft tradition passed down for over 600 years in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture. It is renowned for its durability achieved through the unique jinoko undercoat technique and its gorgeous ornamentation using chinkin and maki-e. It is considered one of the finest traditional crafts in Japan.