Yamachiku makes chopsticks exclusively from pure, natural bamboo, carefully harvested from the mountains of Kumamoto and Fukuoka Prefectures. The difference is immediately noticeable, and many who use them find they prefer bamboo over other materials. Committed to quality, Yamachiku continues to craft chopsticks with the belief that they can make every meal more enjoyable.

Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants, with some species exceeding one meter per day under optimal conditions. In addition, bamboo forests can produce up to thirty percent more oxygen than many tree species while efficiently absorbing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. However, if left unmanaged, certain species can spread aggressively and overtake surrounding forests.

Through the production of bamboo chopsticks, Yamachiku promotes sustainable bamboo management. Its goal is to cultivate bamboo responsibly, use it for chopsticks and other daily necessities, and support those involved in maintaining bamboo forests for future generations.

Bamboo chopsticks have been an indispensable part of Japanese dining for centuries. They are lightweight and flexible, making them ideal for picking up, separating, or stirring food. Their versatility allows for ease of use, enhancing the dining experience. Additionally, bamboo retains its strength even when shaped thin, allowing for the creation of delicate, beautifully crafted chopsticks that bring refinement to any table.

Step inside the workshop at Yamachiku, a bamboo chopstick maker nestled in the mountains of Kumamoto, Kyushu. For over half a century, Yamachiku has specialized in crafting chopsticks from locally harvested bamboo—shaped by hand, finished with layers of lacquer, and known for their lightness, smooth grip, and timeless design.

During our visit, we spoke with the women who apply the lacquer by hand and asked them what makes Yamachiku special. From round to square, plain to colorful, each pair has its own unique charm—and it turns out, everyone has a favorite.

At Yamachiku, bamboo isn’t just a material—it’s a craft. Known for their dedication to handmade bamboo chopsticks, this workshop in Japan transforms raw, jointed stalks into elegant utensils through a careful blend of tradition and technique. From selecting the right bamboo to shaping each piece by hand, the process is a quiet but intricate art.

In this second look inside their workshop, we follow the transformation from heavy bamboo cylinders to refined chopsticks. It’s a story of patience, subtle adjustments, and craftsmanship passed down over time. Discover what makes bamboo chopsticks truly special—and why no two pairs are ever exactly the same.