Journal — Stories from the world of Japanese craft — makers, beauty, seasons, and the table.

Masters of Tradition: Japan's Artisanal Heritage
Explore the stories of seven artisans, who have not only perfected their art but…

Possessing the Light, Edo Kiriko Glassware
Explore Edo Kiriko with artisan Kiyohide, where traditional glass cutting meets precision, beauty, and…

A Symphony of Hands: The Diverse Artisans Behind USUKIYAKI Porcelain Elegance
In the heart of Usuki City, the story of Usuki Ware isn't just the…

From Bends to Beauty: Exploring Suruga's Bamboo Artistry
Visit Shizuoka to explore Suruga bamboo basketry's history, craftsmanship, and the artisans keeping this…
Yamada Minako
Graceful Blue and White Fine Porcelain
Explore the elegance of Kakusho Kiln, where delicate brushwork and soft blue hues define…

The Art of Plate Selection: A Chef's Journey in Picking Japanese Tableware
Discover Chef Yoshiaki Mori’s approach to Japanese tableware at Kisaku, where each plate enriches…
Tominaga Chiaki
Matsuba Tatami: Returning to the Original Inspiration
Learn how Matsuba Tatami brings new life to traditional tatami with handcrafted coasters, book…
Yamada Minako
Defining Modern Lacquerware, a Journey of a Northern Craftsperson
Yoshita Kasho is well known in Japan for his innovative designs using traditional techniques…

Hakuichi: Imbuing A Fresh Aesthetic Sense with Kanazawa Gold Leaves
Hakuichi is renowned for their wide selection of high quality products from accessories to…

Behind the Works of Tosen Kiln
Take a peek behind the warm and inviting works of Tosen Kiln. Here we…

Interview with Mr. Kota Matsumoto -Representative of Sanuki Urushi Sinra
Sinra's lacquerware resonates with modern lifestyles by infusing a unique flair into traditional techniques.

Interview with Mr. Tatsuro Hirota-President of Hirota Glass Co., Ltd (Part 2)
I had the pleasure of sitting down with the fourth president of Hirota Glass,…

Discovering Edo Kiriko with Mr. Tatsuro Hirota, President of Hirota Glass Co., Ltd (Part 1)
Step inside Hirota Glass and explore the craftsmanship, history, and future of Edo Kiriko…

Interview with Nabeshima Ware Artist: Kawasoe Takahiko—Nabeshima Kosen Kiln
Kosen Kiln's medaka rice fIsh series tableware has a charm that grabs your attention…

Interview with Nakaya Shinichi, Specialist of Kutani Ware - History Part 2
Shin-ichi Nakaya, Director of The Kutani porcelain Art Museum discusses historical stories and painting…

Interview with an Artist: Kaichiro Yamada - Designer of Hutlery
Discover the inspiration behind Kaichiro’s beautiful designs and the process of making Hutlery products.

Interview with Nakaya Shinichi, Specialist of Kutani Ware - History Part 1
Kutani ware was introduced in 1655, during the early Edo period (1603-1868), by Maeda…

Interview With An Artist: Ritsuzan Tomita - Chinkin
"Chinkin" is a technique that elegantly decorates the lustrous surface of lacquerware with gold.

Interview With An Artist: Rokusuke Tsuda - Kaga Mizuhiki
Explore the timeless beauty of Japanese knot art and its message of connection.

Lacquer Craftsmen of Yamanaka
The process of lacquer coating is roughly divided into three different processes; base coating,…

"Kiji-shi", Woodturning Craftsmen of Yamanaka Lacquerware
Meet the woodturning masters of Yamanaka lacquerware and how they craft elegant pieces that…

“Arabiki-shi” Rough Grinder Craftsmen of Yamanaka Lacquerware
A number of craftsmen take part in the making of a single Yamanaka lacquerware…
