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It's no accident when a craft is passed down in one specific place for hundreds of years.

Why does a specific craft emerge and evolve uniquely in a particular place? Delving into its origins isn't just about tracing the history of craftsmanship—it's about understanding the very spirit, culture, and relationship with nature that define the people of that land.

When you hear the words "Shigaraki ware," you might picture those charming tanuki (raccoon dog) statues.

In the Kurobane district of Otawara City, Tochigi Prefecture, you'll find the indigo dyeing workshop Kurobane Aizome Konya, a business that has continued since the Edo period.

Nestled by the Myoshoji River in Tokyo's Ochiai, Shinjuku Ward, is Some no Sato Ochiai, a general incorporated association dedicated to preserving the traditional dyeing arts of Edo Sarasa and Edo Komon.

Yame Chochin (lanterns) are a traditional craft passed down through generations in Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture.

Hiroshi Hatakeyama, a Tokyo Shippo artisan, continues creating original works while adapting to industry changes caused by declining demand and expanding overseas production. Through passing his skills on to his daughter and pursuing new forms of expression, he is working to sustain the future of Tokyo Shippo.

Tokyo Shippo (cloisonné) artisan Hiroshi Hatakeyama, honored as a Contemporary Master Craftsman, speaks about his pride in creating practical works that support everyday life. Through his pursuit of pure white coloration and his original Plique-à-jour techniques, he continues to expand the possibilities of Tokyo Shippo (cloisonné)

Hiroshi Hatakeyama, a Tokyo Shippo artisan, reflects on his journey from a childhood spent playing outdoors to choosing a career in the family cloisonné enamel business. The beauty of the colors revealed after firing and encouragement from his father became the foundation of the path that led him to be recognized as a Master Contemporary Craftsman.

Masashi Hirao is a bonsai master. But for him, bonsai are not static, finished pieces to be admired from afar.

For Masahiro Kasahara, a chef's knife is more than just a kitchen tool.

The Sekioka Mokuhanga Kobo workshop continues a lineage of woodblock printers that stretches back to the Edo period.

Daichi Kurihara of Fuji Seigaku found his vocation in picture frame making after pursuing soccer and studying fashion design. While preserving the techniques inherited from his mentor, Toshio Fukutoku, he is working to pass them on to future generations through outreach activities and the training of new artisans.

Shogo Watari explores a new expression of bentwood that weaves together Yoshino hinoki, straight and curved lines, and the relationship between nature and the artificial. This article visits his Kyoto atelier to learn about his practice.

“ikasu” is a textile art project that reconstructs vintage kimono that have fulfilled their role, transforming them into art that continues to exist beyond time. By translating the memories, craftsmanship, and stories embedded within kimono into contemporary spaces, the project creates works intended to be passed down to future generations.

My Introduction to Bonsai, Which Began with a MovieI first began my journey into the art of bonsai at the age of 13 when I received my very first tree from my parents as a birthday gift.

The Impact of a Japanese Sword, Seen Through the Eyes of a CraftsmanWhen I was 17 and traveling in France, I came across a Japanese sword at an exhibition in a department store.

Shoko Omori supports Omori Warosokuya by managing customer service, inventory, the online store, and international shipping, allowing her artisan husband to focus on production. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple reconsidered the business and now emphasize delivering warosoku to people who understand and actively use them.

Sonoe Arai of Shinkei Orimono moved from Tokyo to Chichibu when her husband succeeded the family business, balancing the raising of four children with supporting the production of Chichibu Meisen. While handling public relations, sales, and craftsmanship, she has gradually found her own role in preserving and passing on the traditional textile craft.

After working in the apparel industry, Chiaki Azuma joined a Kishu Tansu workshop following her marriage and pursued a career as a craftsperson while raising children. As Japan’s first female Traditional Craftsman in this field, she promotes the value of paulownia wood and continues efforts to carry the tradition into the next generation.

The dignified presence and lasting durability of Nambu ironware aren't achieved overnight.

Mizuhiki is a traditional Japanese craft, well-known as the decorative art form on celebratory envelopes and engagement gifts.

Have you ever wondered just how much wisdom and technology goes into a single piece of pottery before it reaches your dining table? The Hasami ware we casually use every day is backed by a rich tapestry of techniques, cultivated and perfected over a 400-year history.