Gion Weeping Sakura-Designed Chopstick Rest Set

The image of the graceful weeping sakura, cherry blossoms, of Gion, Kyoto, is depicted on these chopstick rests from Tosen Kiln. Weeping cherry blossoms are one of the representative flowers of Kyoto, and express Kyoto's unique atmosphere. The pink and pale green of the cherry blossoms beautifully decorate the yellowish cream white color of the Kiyomizu ware base. 

The paintwork is done by craftpersons with in-depth knowledge of Japanese-style painting. The creativity and skillful techniques of these craftspersons are astoundingly displayed through the exquisite pieces made at Tosen Kiln. The cherry blossoms are hand-painted one by one on the unglazed surface of each chopstick rest. Painting delicate colored designs on an unglazed base requires a tremendous amount of skill, as the base material is highly absorbent. After each chopstick rest is painted, a "nami-yu" glaze is applied and giving the chopstick rests a clear and shiny coat over the detailed drawings.

Enjoy matching these chopstick rests with other items from Tosen Kiln's Sakura series such as their Katakuchi sake carafe and sake cups. Place them on a table or a shelf as decorative items to add hints of soft pink reminiscent of spring in Kyoto. This set of five pieces, all contained in an attractive paulownia box also decorated with hand-painted beautiful cherry blossoms, makes for the perfect present.

Tosen Kiln

Tosen Kiln was founded in 1868 as a Kiyomizu ware wholesaler. In 1944, it established a production studio in Mukomachi, a suburb of Kyoto, marking the beginning of full-scale Kiyomizu ware production. Today, the kiln operates in Gojo, Kyoto, continuing its legacy of craftsmanship.

Dedicated to refining its techniques and artistic sensibilities, Tosen Kiln embraces Kyoto’s traditional craftsmanship while adapting it for the modern era. Drawing inspiration from Edo-period master potter Nonomura Ninsei, it preserves his precise lathing techniques and luminous painting styles, blending them with clean lines and warm tones to create pieces that resonate with contemporary aesthetics.

Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware, collectively known as Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki, are celebrated pottery styles from Kyoto. Known for their vibrant designs, finely sculpted forms, and dedication to handcrafted detail, these wares reflect Kyoto’s distinctive sense of beauty and artistic refinement.

Defined by a long-cultivated diversity, Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware have drawn on techniques and styles from pottery traditions across Japan, evolving into a richly expressive and distinctly Kyoto art form. Recognized as a Traditional Craft of Japan in 1977, they continue to be cherished for their cultural depth and everyday appeal.