Echizen Lacquerware

About

Echizen lacquerware originated around the city of Sabae in Fukui Prefecture, in the northern part of Japan. With a history going back more than 1,500 years, it is known for its subdued luster and elegant beauty. It is produced by experienced artisans, each specializing in one step of the production process. Along with the changing lifestyles of Japanese people and market needs, creators of Echizen lacquerware have developed diversified products and created technology for mass production. Today, more than 80% of the lacquerware for domestic food industry and business use comes from Echizen. This is a region that is not only home to centuries of tradition, but also reinventing itself through innovation.