If you’re interested in bamboo crafts, ceramics, or other traditional Japanese crafts, you’re not alone. Many people are captivated by Japan’s timeless craftsmanship. Located in Mashiko Town, Tochigi Prefecture, Kurashi no Shina Tsukamoto has been offering beautifully handcrafted, artisan pieces for over 100 years. We spoke with store manager Rika Isami to uncover what makes this shop so special and the dedication behind each piece.
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A New Chapter in a 100-Year History
For nearly a century, Kurashi no Shina Tsukamoto has served the people of Mashiko Town as a hardware store. On April 6, 2024, it began a new chapter, introducing a collection of Japanese traditional crafts that bring true value to everyday life.
The store showcases beautifully woven bamboo crafts from Mashiko artisans, carefully crafted serving plates by a skilled Tottori bamboo craftsman, and elegant magazine racks made from white bamboo using Kagoshima’s traditional techniques. Traveling across Japan, the store curates exceptional handcrafted goods, selecting each piece for its quality, artistry, and connection to Japan’s rich craft heritage.
Beyond bamboo crafts, the store offers plates, mugs, cutlery, and glassware—everyday essentials that bring warmth and creativity to daily life.
The Artisan’s Dedication
Each piece reflects the dedication of Japanese artisans who craft their work with care and precision. Take bamboo crafts, for example. To weave a basket, artisans must split bamboo into thin, even strips, a meticulous process requiring time and skill. Creating these strips alone is a demanding task that involves patience and expertise.
That’s why handcrafted pieces, made with unwavering attention to detail and exceptional skill, stand out for their high quality. Beyond craftsmanship, the natural warmth of the materials and the way they develop a unique character over time add to their charm.
Bamboo craftsman Takeshi Sekine has spent over 30 years mastering his art. He personally selects and harvests bamboo from the mountains, weaving it while it is still supple. Freshly crafted baskets retain moisture, giving them a soft green hue. Over time, they dry and gradually turn into a rich, warm brown.
As the years pass, the texture deepens, and the basket becomes even more comfortable to use. This is not just an object but a piece that grows with you, adding timeless beauty to your daily life.
A Cozy Life Begins with Cherished Tools
“Even on the busiest days, replacing just one everyday item—like a plate or a basket—can bring a little joy,” says Isami. In today’s world, where almost anything is available at a 100-yen shop, convenience is undeniable. But handcrafted pieces become more familiar with use, their colors deepening over time, allowing you to appreciate the passage of time through them.
More than anything, simply having a beloved item by your side can make life feel more fulfilling.
At Kurashi no Shina Tsukamoto, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned. Why not take the time to find a piece that will become a cherished companion in your home?
Details of Kurashi no Shina Tsukamoto
Contact: View Website
Address: 898 Mashiko, Mashiko Town, Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture
Business Hours: Open on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
*During the summer season, hours are extended to 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The store remains open during The Mashiko Pottery Fair.
