Layers of Time: Discover the Living Beauty of Kiso Lacquerware

Kiso lacquerware, a nationally designated traditional craft, has been perfected over four centuries. In the village of Kiso-Hirasawa, artisans still practice the delicate craft of applying layer upon layer of lacquer to wooden forms, creating a deep, lustrous finish that lives on as part of daily life. This experience begins with a visit to Chikiriya Tezuka Man’emon Lacquerware, a wholesaler with a 200-year history, where seventh-generation owner Mr. Hideaki Tezuka will introduce the origins, materials, tools, and processes behind Kiso lacquerware. You’ll then visit Urushi Kobo Ishimoto Gyokusu, where lacquerwork is fine art, and Maruyoshi Kosaka Lacquerware Shop, known for modern interpretations. At both workshops, you’ll observe artisans at work and have time to converse with them directly. Through this journey, you’ll discover that Kiso lacquerware is not just a “beauty to behold,” but a “beauty completed through use,” embodying 400 years of history and devotion. An optional hands-on activity to experience urushi-e (lacquer painting) or chōkin (metal inlay) on lacquerware is also available for an additional fee.