Fall in love with Japan even more through traditional crafts

There are now only five days left of the traditional crafts event.
We have many customers visiting us every day, and thanks to them, our staff also have a fun time.

He looks at each one carefully, carefully choosing his favorite with a serious expression.
And while Asami shares in the happiness she feels from those smiles, she also feels a little lonely after seeing off the vessels that are leaving their journey .

■First, let's review: What are traditional crafts?
That's it! It refers to the tools we use in our daily lives.
And to explain it in a very simple way ,

- Uses traditional ingredients from the region
・It is made by hand using methods that have been handed down for many years. ・It is a viable local industry.

There are standards such as:

A traditional craftsman is a nationally certified professional, and you can only take the exam after gaining at least 12 years of practical experience. That alone is a reason to choose it...
I love it!

They are made from natural materials that do not burden the earth, and are not mass-produced, which can lead to human rights and environmental issues.
What's more, if you incorporate it into your life, you can continue to connect with Japanese culture.

I think this is a perfect fit for the values ​​of today's era!!
I think I'm probably the only person in my 20s who feels more comfortable using furoshiki as my reusable bag, and who uses incense sticks and tea incense burners for room fragrance ( laughs ) .

Today, I would like to introduce some of the Japanese crafts that I love. Please stay tuned !

■ Tohoku Region Traditional Kokeshi Dolls

My late grandfather's collection numbered hundreds in my home, and it even made it into the newspaper. When I have time, I polish them with a hand towel, and my grandmother reminisces and tells me stories, a little annoyed, about how "they paint faces that look just like his wife's" and "I used to be taken to Tohoku a lot back then. " I thought I would never buy a kokeshi doll myself, since we have so many at home , but blood is thicker than water.
Recently, I made my kokeshi debut ( lol ).

Kokeshi dolls were originally a local toy. I was really touched by the image of them carrying a child on their back.

■ Oita Prefecture Beppu Bamboo Crafts

During the Edo period, people visiting Beppu for hot spring cures began bringing them home as souvenirs, and they became popular.
Madake from Oita Prefecture is said to have long intervals between nodes and beautiful color and shape.

I fell in love with it the moment I saw it,
Directly with that momentum This is what I got in touch with the traditional craftsman.

I'm thinking of having a yukata tailored for next summer,
When that time comes, I'll carry you stylishly and walk you through the town This is what we are aiming for.

■ Kyoto Prefecture Kyoto folding fan
Its roots are in Japan! It is said that folding fans first appeared in the early Heian period and then spread to China and Europe.

The charm of Kyoto fans that we would like to introduce to you is the "Yasoseven craftsmanship"!
Perhaps many people find this surprising.
In fact, this Kyoto fan is made by hand, with all the work done, including making the frame, painting, and assembling. Each type is made by skilled craftsmen. Kyo-sensu fans have many ribs, which creates a gentle breeze. Once every few years, they are painted with aloeswood fragrance, and incense and bunko are also made.

■ Ishikawa Prefecture Nanao Japanese Candles
Japanese candles are the original botanical candles of Japan.
They are made from a core that is hand-wound with washi paper and cotton, and from vegetable wax such as hazelnut and rice bran.

In the winter in snowy regions, it is difficult to get fresh flowers, so people would paint flower pictures on candles and offer them as offerings. The strong flames, which can withstand the wind, provide a bright glow. You'll lose track of time and just stare at them for hours.

Well, I've talked about this and that, but more than anything, I'm overwhelmed with gratitude for having had the opportunity to meet Yamaguchi-san of Kodaiyaki Issakigama through this event. Overwhelmed with gratitude. And the time I spend talking with everyone who comes to It's so easy is also a very precious treasure to me.

Only 5 days left.
Please come and visit us to find the perfect piece of pottery.

STAFF: Asami