Odate bentwood, or magewappa, is characteristic of the Odate region in northern Akita Prefecture. Wood is split into narrow boards that then are immersed in boiling water and bent multiple times before the board is pegged into shape and left to dry. Odate magewappa is very popular for lunch boxes and containers for rice or sake.

Odate bentwood, or magewappa

Shunji Kurimori is a well known master of Odate bentwood work, and the sixth generation proprietor of Kurikyu, which was established in 1874 in Odate City. Kurimori has received multiple awards for his works in Japan, and also exhibited in England, Australia, China and the U.S.

Read More: All About Japan

4 Cool Things Made of Kurikyu Odate Bentwood

Kurikyu Bentwood is known for high-quality bentwood products emblematic of the city of Odate in Akita Prefecture. The company is run by Shunji Kurimori, the sixth generation proprietor, who has received many awards for his craft and exhibited his works overseas.

Read More: All About Japan
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