A region attached to its craftsmanship
Kansai is a region extremely rich in handicrafts. Some techniques and fields of know-how were even born in the region, making the pride of its inhabitants. Along a journey in Kansai, the curious traveler will have the opportunity to discover many crafts during his various tourist stops. Even in Japan, historical and cultural knowledge can link a place to an art and know-how, such as, for example, the island of Awaji, where the tradition of incense was born, the town of Sakai and its world-famous cutlery, or the village of Echizen and its washi paper. An age-old traditional craft is also seen as a witness to the past, as an open book that tells us the history of a period, a society and the arrival of new techniques and the threats to its existence at that time. Yumigamaha, in Tottori Prefecture, has been a major producer of high quality cotton since the Edo period. Unfortunately, production declined from the Meiji era onwards due to imported cotton. Miraculously, and with a lot of courage and pugnacity on the part of those involved in the field, certain techniques and arts are reborn from their ashes and return to the forefront for the greatest pleasure of lovers of tradition.
A multitude of know-how
Since 2013, the Kansai Select Craft 14 project has been selecting 14 representative Kansai crafts. Over the course of the different editions, the catalogue grows and we discover many craftsmen passionate about their craft and a multitude of objects and products of all kinds. There is something for all tastes and all budgets, which is ideal for shopping pleasures and favorites during a trip to Kansai. Among the selected handicrafts are, but are not limited to, Kishu lacquerware, indigo-dyed products, chocolate leather, wooden pencils, accessories made with special textiles and cottons, incense and gold leafed tableware. Some of these pieces are true works of art and just contemplating them or appreciating the craftsman at work will delight the visitor.
Throughout our guide, at the end of the Kansai Select Craft 14 prefectures presentation, you'll find three crafts and objects selected by us so that you can not only learn about the wealth of local handicrafts before you arrive in Japan, but also be inspired by them and learn more about the traditions of the Kansai region.
