MERU is a brand launched in 2022 by Marukuni Ito, as a crystallization of the finest technology of Mino ware, which has a history of over 1,300 years and accounts for approximately 60% of the national market share in terms of tableware production. MERU’s tableware combines the fine forms with the gentle atmosphere of handcrafted ceramics, while also maintaining a colorful and modern design with a Japanese tradition. It is like the tableware used in fine restaurants, with a design and user-friendly features that enhance the visual beauty of food.

The wholesaler and producer, Marukuni Ito, has built a partnership with a kiln and respects the values and skills of the craftsmen who work on MERU, working together to create a unique products.

MERU's tablewares are characterized by a rich variety of glazing techniques that delight the eye, and the combination of softness and modernity shapes that can only be achieved by handcrafting. The gentle atmosphere of those pieces are diligently crafted, in hopes of comfort and ease of use.

In addition, it is a unique design that incorporates traditional techniques into a contemporary style with the silhouettes and colors that are unlike anything else on the market today. MERU's tableware will adds a neat impression and sparkle joy to your dining table.

The design of MERU's tableware is created through a relationship of trust between Marukuni Ito and the kiln of Mino ware craftsmen.

Marukuni Ito's concept is to create products with the best characteristics of each kiln, so  designing the product is inspired by the techniques, unique features, and traditions of the kilns. Instead of unilaterally outsourcing production, by visiting the craftsman repeatedly, they work together in a dialogue to create MERU products.

It is not an easy task to produce a satisfactory product, as it can take as long as six months to make a prototype through a series of trial-and-error processes. However, the relationship of trust between Marukuni Ito and kiln has made it possible to create many wonderful tablewares.

What makes MERU tableware so elaborate and comfortable to use is the fact that the Mino ware wholesaler Marukuni Ito and the craftsmen's ingenuity. The craftsmen deeply understand Marukuni Ito's manufacturing  philosophy and work diligently to create high-quality, user-friendly products by making careful adjustments to the modeling, glaze color, and all other details.

And Marukuni Ito contributes to the preservation of each kiln's techniques by incorporating traditional Mino ware techniques into new products. The supportive coexistence between craftsmen and wholesaler is what creates MERU, bringing the joy of craftsmanship to your dining table.