Wakasa-nuri
Wakasa-nuri is a traditional lacquerware craft that has been passed down for over 400 years in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, and is especially renowned for its chopsticks. Using materials such as seashells, eggshells, pine needles, and gold and silver foil, artisans apply multiple layers of lacquer and polish them using a technique called togidashi (polished finishing). This process creates stunning patterns reminiscent of the ocean floor or a starry sky.
Each piece is meticulously handcrafted, and its brilliance changes depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Wakasa-nuri is highly valued as a traditional craft that embodies both the beauty of Japan and the skills of its artisans, combining artistic expression with practical functionality.
Due to its delicate craftsmanship, hand washing is recommended. The more the pieces are used, the deeper and richer their texture becomes. Wakasa-nuri is popular as a souvenir or gift, and at local workshops, visitors can also experience polishing their own chopsticks.
Koichi Hada – Traditional Craftsman
Born in 1962 (63 years old)
14th-generation head of Haneda Lacquerware Shop
Certified Traditional Craftsman
At the age of 22, he spent seven years training in lacquer painting in the Echizen lacquerware production area. Afterward, he formally learned and honed the techniques of Wakasa-nuri under the guidance of his father, a master craftsman.
He produces original works featuring Haneda Lacquerware’s unique patterns, created using Ise-katagami (traditional stencil paper), while faithfully preserving the traditions handed down from previous generations.
In 2007, he received the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry's Encouragement Award for his significant contributions to the promotion of the Wakasa lacquerware industry as a successor to traditional craftsmanship, earning high acclaim domestically.
• 1992: Award at the Fukui Prefecture Specialty Good Design Exhibition
• 2007: Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award for Distinguished Contributors to Traditional Craft Industries – Encouragement Award
• 2019: Recognized as an Excellent Successor of Traditional Craft by the Governor of Fukui Prefecture
Hiroyoshi Kabuku – Traditional Craftsman
Born in 1974 (51 years old)
4th-generation head of Kafuku Lacquerware Shop
At the age of 22, he began seriously producing Wakasa-nuri lacquerware while learning techniques from his father, a Wakasa lacquerware master.
In addition to traditional lacquerware and chopsticks, he also creates unique works such as accessories including fountain pens and earrings, as well as modern designs using eggshell inlays.
Katsuhiko Furukawa – Traditional Craftsman
Born in 1976 (49 years old)
4th-generation head of Furukawa Wakasa Lacquerware Shop
He left his previous profession and returned to his hometown to succeed the family business.
While receiving guidance from his father, a Wakasa lacquerware master, he formally began producing Wakasa-nuri in 2011.
Obama City, located in Fukui Prefecture and facing the Sea of Japan, is a historic port town renowned for its rich food culture. Since ancient times, it has been known as a "Miketsukuni," a region that supplied seafood and other delicacies to the Imperial Court.
It is also famous as the starting point of the "Saba Kaido" (Mackerel Highway), a historic route leading to the ancient capital of Kyoto. The town retains many old temples and traditional streetscapes, offering a charming blend of culinary heritage and history.
Blessed with beautiful coastlines and abundant natural surroundings, Obama City also offers stunning seasonal landscapes, making it a place where visitors can create unforgettable memories.
