Walk the path of Japan’s master craftspeople.
Takumi (匠) means a master artisan. We explain Japan’s traditional crafts in depth — where they come from, how they are made, how to choose authentic pieces, and where you can see them being made.
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Crafts
In-depth guides to Japan’s traditional crafts — history, regions, techniques and how to choose.
Buying Guides
How to choose and where to buy authentic, Japanese-made craft goods.
Experiences
Workshops and craft towns you can visit in Japan.
Regions
Craft regions of Japan and what each is known for.
Glossary
Japanese craft terms, explained.
Latest guides
CraftsHow Traditional Kintsugi Works: Urushi, Steps and Key Terms
Kintsugi mends pottery with urushi lacquer and gold. Learn the six traditional steps, why lacquer cures in humid air, key terms, aftercare and where to get repairs.
CraftsThe True Story of Kintsugi: What Japanese Sources Actually Say
Did kintsugi begin with Ashikaga Yoshimasa's cracked tea bowl? What Japanese museums and researchers say about its history, from Jomon lacquer repairs to Edo.
CraftsNambu Tekki Guide: Iwate Cast Iron from Morioka and Mizusawa
Nambu tekki is Iwate's cast ironware. Learn its two origins in Morioka and Mizusawa, how it is made, the main makers, how to spot the real thing and where to visit.
CraftsTypes of Japanese Knives: Deba, Yanagiba, Usuba, Santoku & More
Japanese kitchen knife types explained from Japanese sources: traditional vs Western-style, single vs double bevel, Kanto vs Kansai shapes, plus a comparison table.
Buying GuidesHow to Tell If a Japanese Knife Is Really Made in Japan
Made in Japan or just Japanese-style? A practical checklist covering origin rules, regional trademarks, steel names, Damascus patterns and where to buy with confidence.
Buying GuidesHow to Care for and Sharpen a Japanese Knife: Rust, Washing and Whetstones
Japanese knife care from Japanese makers: preventing rust, washing and drying, why dishwashers are out, choosing whetstones, and where to get a knife resharpened.
Buying GuidesReal Urushi vs Epoxy Kintsugi: Is Your Kintsugi Kit Food Safe?
Real urushi, synthetic lacquer or epoxy? See what Japanese makers say about food use, how to read a kintsugi kit's label, and how to care for a repaired bowl.
Buying GuidesHow to Season and Care for a Tetsubin: Japanese Makers' Guide
How to season a new tetsubin, dry it after use, deal with scale, rust and cloudy water, and use it on gas or IH, based on Iwate makers' own care guides.
Buying GuidesTetsubin vs Cast Iron Teapot (Kyusu): Can You Boil Water in It?
A tetsubin is a kettle; an iron kyusu is an enamel-lined teapot. Japanese makers say never heat a kyusu. Compare the two, check exceptions and learn the care.