Arts and Crafts


@The specific traditions of Takayama crafts are documented way backto the beginning of the Edo Period (the early 1600's). At that time, elegantforms of carvings and lacquer ware were introduced from Kyoto and over theyears these evolved into products with a distinctive local style - a combinationof rustic simplicity and fine workmanship.

Ichii Ittobori Carving
Featuring a bold cutting technique on fine yewwood, this carving work can be seen in many treasured art objects, fromthe details of the Yatai floats to decorative figurines. The rich colorand natural sheen of the wood, together with the decisiveness of the cutting,give this craft great distinction, and the technique is still flourishing.

Shunkei Lacquer ware
This lacquer ware is distinguished by the transparencyof the finish, enhancing the grain of the wood. Forms such as trays, boxesand flower containers have an elegance reflecting the taste of Kyoto, fromwhere the craft was introduced to Takayama at the beginning of the 17thcentury.

Pottery
Three traditional potteries keep alive the Takayama tradition with waresthat range from the simple and rustic to the elaborate and refined. Theoldest of these potteries, producing Koito-yaki ware, was founded in the17th century, Yamada-yaki is a graceful slip ware, while Shibukusa-yakiis a decorative ware showing the influence of Kutani ceramics.

Koito-yaki Yamada-yaki Shibukusa-yaki

Furniture and Other Crafts
The whole of the region is well-known for its traditional furniture, especiallychests, as well as domestic and decorative objects made of wood. Today,Takayama is also well-known for its modern, Western-style, furniture. Otherattractive items include straw baskets, hats, sandals, folk toys and textilesin rustic style.

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