Pop Culture and Japan · The Kokoro Files

How A Japanese Crafts Brand Aims To Protect The Heritage Of Iwate Prefecture’s Dying Lacquerware Industry

Iwate artisans are some of the most skilled lacquerware designers in all of Japan.

Japanese craftsmanship is one of the most intricate and beautiful design styles in the world for the attention to care and innovation. There’s a long history within the country of distinctive artistic styles, as much as there is a penchant for improving on and perfecting Western techniques.

A particular area of design that is rich in both history and innovation is Japanese lacquerware design. Different regions of Japan may have distinct techniques, with Iwate Prefecture having a unique culture all its own. This uniqueness is something Ryo Minakawa, co-founder of Toramoten is keen to emphasise. He and his co-founder Kohei Chida are focused on bridging the gap between Japanese traditional crafts and the world.

You can learn more about Toramonten’s worthy mission in this exclusive Yamato Magazine interview with Minakawa as the company navigates the early stages of the business.

Continue reading “How A Japanese Crafts Brand Aims To Protect The Heritage Of Iwate Prefecture’s Dying Lacquerware Industry”