kabazaiku 樺細工

Kabazaiku, or cherry bark work, is a craft from Kakunodate in Akita Prefecture that uses the bark of wild cherry (yamazakura) to cover practical and decorative items, prized for the bark's deep natural luster and grain. It is made by three techniques: kata-mono (bark wrapped on a mold for cylindrical pieces such as tea canisters), kiji-mono (bark applied over wooden boxes), and tatami-mono (layered, carved bark for small items such as brooches). It was designated a national traditional craft in 1976.

The cherry bark is collected without harming the life of the tree. After collection, the bark undergoes processes including drying and airing before being decorated, polished, and crafted into finished products. Artisans carefully finish each piece by hand, revealing the bark's natural luster, deep hues, and organic texture.