Odate Magewappa is a traditional craft from Odate City, Akita Prefecture, celebrated for its exquisite grain and the natural warmth of Akita cedar. With origins tracing back over 1,000 years to the Heian period, it later flourished as a supplementary craft for samurai, utilizing local resources. This time-honored technique has been meticulously passed down through generations. The manufacturing process begins with carefully selected, mature Akita cedar, which undergoes boiling, bending, and drying before being skillfully stitched with cherry bark by artisans. Renowned for its lightweight design, excellent insulation, and moisture-absorbing properties, Odate Magewappa is crafted into a wide range of products, from bento boxes to coffee cups. These masterpieces seamlessly blend tradition with modern lifestyles, earning a cherished place in everyday life.

Founded in 1874, Kurikyu is a renowned Odate Magewappa brand based in Odate City, Akita Prefecture. Established by its founder, Chojuro, the company began producing kabazaiku (cherry bark craft) in the late Edo period, eventually leveraging this expertise to craft Magewappa items starting in the early Showa period. Notably, the fifth-generation master craftsman, Joji, developed unique tools and jigs that improved both efficiency and quality. Today, the sixth-generation artisan, Mr. Kurimori, aged 76, has been recognized as a "Master of Traditional Crafts" by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Kurikyu’s products, showcasing the natural beauty and functionality of Akita cedar, are treasured as timeless pieces that bring elegance and richness to daily life.

Elevate Sake Moments: Masterfully Crafted Akita Cedar Sake Set