Wajima Lacquerware: A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Wajima lacquerware (Wajima-nuri), a traditional craft born in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, stands alongside Aizu lacquerware (Fukushima) and Kishu lacquerware (Wakayama) as one of Japan’s most esteemed lacquerware traditions, garnering high praise both domestically and internationally.
Renowned for its durability and elegance, Wajima lacquerware owes its exceptional strength and heat resistance to the high-quality soil found only in Wajima. Each piece undergoes over 100 meticulous production steps, crafted by highly skilled artisans, resulting in a stunning and refined finish.
In the Noto region, Wajima lacquerware has long been cherished for special occasions, such as festivals or family gatherings, where it is used to serve meals to visiting relatives. Its remarkable durability allows it to be passed down from parents to children, and even to grandchildren, making it a treasured heirloom.
Wajima Lacquerware in Contemporary Interior and Art Industries
In recent years, Wajima lacquerware has gained attention not only as a traditional craft but also as an art form suited to modern lifestyles. To adapt to evolving consumer preferences, artisans have begun crafting contemporary designs while preserving the essence of this historic technique.
A notable example of Wajima lacquerware’s increasing global recognition is former Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s gift to former U.S. President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden—a coffee cup and ballpoint pen crafted by Taya Shikkiten, a prominent Wajima lacquerware workshop. Furthermore, a collaboration between Wajima lacquerware and a prestigious British royal warrant tableware brand has demonstrated its ability to transcend tradition and embrace innovation.
The Impact of the Noto Peninsula Earthquake
The devastating Noto Peninsula Earthquake, which struck last year, severely affected Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture. Wajima lacquerware was not spared—many workshops were damaged, forcing artisans to halt production and disrupting their livelihoods.
Even before the disaster, Japan’s traditional crafts faced a nationwide decline in skilled artisans. The earthquake further exacerbated the situation, leading to workshop closures and artisans leaving the region. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local governments, support organizations, and volunteers across Japan, recovery efforts were swiftly initiated. Just three months after the disaster, temporary workshops were set up, allowing artisans to resume their craft.
In addition, a volunteer organization launched a charity initiative, collecting Wajima lacquerware pieces that had to be relinquished due to the disaster. These items were sold through charity auctions, with all proceeds directed toward the revitalization of the Noto region.
Hopes for Recovery
One year after the Noto Peninsula Earthquake, the path to full recovery remains challenging. However, the resilience and unity of the Noto community continue to shine, reaffirming the deep ties among its people.
As part of GARDE’s 40th anniversary commemoration, we have incorporated Wajima lacquerware into the design of our commemorative wine stoppers—a small but meaningful step in supporting regional recovery and revitalization efforts.
We remain committed to preserving the beauty and heritage of Wajima lacquerware, and we wholeheartedly support the dedicated artisans who continue to safeguard and pass down this invaluable cultural tradition for future generations.
Comment from Taya Shikkiten
Wajima lacquerware has been designated as a National Important Intangible Cultural Property, with clearly defined manufacturing processes and materials. Based on the philosophy that high-quality lacquerware is achieved through the collaboration of skilled artisans specializing in each step of the finely divided production process, craftspeople work together to create a single masterpiece.
We believe that the smooth texture of natural lacquer, its visual elegance, and its durability surpass any other coating material in the world. We sincerely hope that those who hold our lacquerware in their hands can appreciate the profound beauty of this traditional art form.
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