The six FY2018 municipalities introduced here were selected in a careful screening of applicants. Each locale isnotable for the high level of artistry and creativity carried out within a traditional sphere.
Crafted by hand from the fi ber of trees grown by the artisans themselves, these resilient, textured papers are easy on the environment in ways worth knowing about.
The moist, silky look of urushi lacquer is deceiving: this all-natural coating is durable enough to outlast us all. Two artisans carry on the Kishu heritage of using raw sap in innovative ways.
Kilns were fi ring wares in this Land of Pottery as far back as the 10th century. Seto potters today can meet just about any design or technical challenge. Read on to see their diverse styles.
A bioactive protein secreted by silkworms and typically discarded in silk-making is being recovered and adapted for use in high-end bath products that benefi t skin and the environment.
Deep in snow country, where the Tadami River flows, lies a town where handmade basketry is just one secret behind a community-wide joie de vivre.
Tokyo has been an ideal place for fabric dyeing since the earliest days of the capital. In the Edo era (1603–1868) it was common to see long bolts of kimono fabric rippling in the waters as craftsmen washed the dyed cloth.
A town known for indigo dyeing is now a top maker of Japan denim—one of the country’s best-known exports, loved by fashion mavens around the world for its high quality. That passion began here.
Ensconced in this mountainous hot-spring town, the woodturners and makie lacquer artists of Yamanaka Onsen have long pursued perfection.
Look closely through the translucent sheen of any Akoya pearl and you’ll see a rainbow of colors—a joint gift from the growers, the oysters, and the sea itself.
This knife will change every assumption you have about the best way to cut cakes and other confections perfectly. Once you’ve tried it, we think you’ll be hooked.
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