Akita Cedar Craftsmanship

Traditional craft boxes produced in Odate, Akita by bending thin cedar boards. Continuing since Edo period, bentou boxes are held with bamboo nails, offering superior breathability preserving food quality. Simple yet elegant appearance valued by tea masters. Still manufactured through hand craftsmanship today.

Traditional craft boxes produced in Odate, Akita by bending thin cedar boards. Continuing since Edo period, bentou boxes are held with bamboo nails, offering superior breathability preserving food quality. Simple yet elegant appearance valued by tea masters. Still manufactured through hand craftsmanship today.

Traditional wooden dolls originating from hot spring areas in the Tohoku region. Characterized by a cylindrical body and spherical head turned on a lathe, they are beloved for their simple yet warm expressions. Shapes and patterns differ by production area, and traditional kokeshi are classified into eleven lineages.

Woodcraft produced in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture. A technique combining different colored woods to create geometric patterns, it continues Edo-period traditions and represents the pinnacle of yosegi marquetry. Typical works include small boxes and writing cases featuring intricate, complex patterns. Representative of Japanese woodworking culture realized through artisans' advanced techniques.

A woodworking craft developed in Kamakura, Kanagawa. Distinctive carving techniques create patterns in wooden objects, finished with lacquer coating. Originally produced as Buddhist altar items from the Muromachi period, it now encompasses tableware and decorative pieces. Characterized by its simple, refined beauty.

Woodcraft tradition in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture. Creates intricate geometric patterns by interlocking wooden pieces without nails or adhesive. Transmitted through Takayama master craftsmen since the Edo period, valued for architectural components and decorative items. Characterized by precise, beautiful geometric patterns.

Inlaid woodcraft produced in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. Combines different colored woods to create complex geometric patterns. Originating from tea box manufacturing in the Edo period, now crafted into small boxes, coasters, and decorative items. Characterized by intricate craftsmanship and visual elegance.