Kenrou Yuubi - Robust and Graceful Japanese Vessels

Wajima is located on the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. The climate of the Japan Sea side, with its moist winds, and the geographical conditions that support the growth of many trees used as materials, create an environment suitable for lacquerware production. The crafting of lacquerware began as early as the Jomon period. The unique techniques of Wajima lacquerware are said to have been established in the early Edo period. By mixing high-hardness diatomaceous earth from the Noto region with lacquer and using it as a base, an exceptionally durable type of lacquerware was created, unmatched in its strength. Additionally, the beauty of techniques like Maki-e and Chinkin, along with the gentle texture unique to lacquer, has led Wajima lacquerware to be known as "Kenrou Yuubi" (robust and graceful).

Masterpieces Crafted by Hokuriku's Renowned Artisan

Kenji Yamamoto, a renowned Maki-e artist from Hokuriku, has twice received the Special Prize at Japan's largest comprehensive art exhibition, the Nitten, in 2011 and 2014. Inside the Yamamoto Seikoudou store, his works are displayed alongside lacquerware. The award-winning pieces "Natural" and "Slow Motion" are crafted using techniques such as raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) and togidashi (polished gold and silver), with each element beautifully intertwined to create a stunning effect.

(Left) 2011 Nitten Special Mention Award-winning work “Slow Motion “

(Right) 2014 Nitten Special Mention Award-winning work “Natural “

Cherishing and Nurturing Vessels for the Next Generation

The noren (shop curtain) at Yamamoto Seikodo reads, "Isn't it wonderful that a grandchild inherits the vessel their grandmother once bought?" Wajima lacquerware, which gains character with use, is a vessel to be cherished and nurtured, repaired and passed down through generations.

In 2024, Wajima City suffered significant damage from the Noto Peninsula earthquake, impacting many Wajima lacquerware workshops. Although Yamamoto Seikodo's store escaped structural damage, it has become difficult to continue regular operations, and currently, they are only operating their online shop.

Our company, Hiyoshiya, also produces Kyoto umbrellas, which, like Wajima lacquerware, are traditional crafts involving a division of labor. This system of division means that if any craftsman is missing from the process, the tradition cannot be upheld. As fellow artisans, we want to contribute, however modestly, to ensuring that the tradition of Wajima lacquerware is not lost and to help deliver these cherished products to customers.