Pine, Bamboo and Plum Chopsticks Pair Set

This two-pair set of chopsticks features a refined pine, bamboo, and plum motif. Coated with natural lacquer, the chopsticks have a smooth, slightly textured finish that fits comfortably in the hand. The intricate gold detailing adds a luxurious touch.

Crafted through a meticulous process, this set showcases a soft glow and fine texture, with delicate plant patterns on the handle and gold embellishments enhancing its elegance.

The upper end is adorned with the traditional Aizu-e pattern, a distinctive design of Aizu lacquerware. Each piece is meticulously hand-painted by skilled maki-e artists, ensuring unique craftsmanship. The auspicious motif of pine, bamboo, and plum symbolizes good fortune and longevity in Japan.

Fukunishi Sobe Shoten

Fukunishi Sobe Shoten, a long-established Aizu lacquerware company, was founded in 1919 by Fukunishi Sobe, who branched off from the Fukunishi Ihee Shoten—the main family business that had been operating since the early Edo period (1603–1868 CE) for thirteen generations. 

In addition to traditional lacquering techniques that highlight the soft, lustrous finish characteristic of lacquerware, they continue to pass down unique Aizu decorative methods such as Aizu-e painting, featuring motifs of pine, bamboo, plum, and ceremonial arrows, as well as the use of spinning wheel patterns.

Aizu lacquerware is a traditional craft originating from the Aizu region in western Fukushima. Nestled in a basin surrounded by mountain ranges, the region's humid climate provides ideal conditions for working with lacquer. Aizu lacquerware is known for its auspicious motifs and refined decorative techniques, including Aizu-e, featuring vibrant Japanese floral patterns, and maki-e, which uses gold powder to create intricate designs.

Firmly rooted in over 400 years of tradition, Aizu lacquerware continues to evolve by embracing modern techniques, sharing its timeless beauty with the world today.