niponica is a web magazine that introduces modern Japan to people all over the world.
2017 No.22
Tokyo, a 400-Year Narrative
Prefectural Showrooms in Tokyo
You can see and examine local products from throughout Japan without leaving Tokyo, thanks to shops promoted by the country’s prefectures. Come take a stroll in Tokyo on this magical trip through Japan.
Photos: Ito Chiharu
1. 青森 Aomori Prefecture
Tsugaru-nuri Lacquerware
Aomori Hokusai-kan
Tsugaru-nuri features ornate, intricate patterns drawn on a shiny lacquered surface. The appearance is gorgeous, and the objects themselves are durable and practical. They are a real favorite as everyday dinnerware.
2. 秋田 Akita Prefecture
Odate Mage-wappa Bentwood Containers
Akita Furusato-kan
http://www.a-bussan.jp/shop/tokyo/
Thin sheets of cedar wood are bent to make wappa wooden boxes. These containers are both beautiful and very practical, as they even help combat bacteria and keep humidity levels near optimum. When used as a bento lunch box, a wappa is sure to make lunch look delicious.
3. 岩手 Iwate Prefecture
Nambu-tekki Ironware
Iwate Ginga Plaza
Nambu-tekki cast ironware is admired for its flawlessly beautiful black finish. Many pieces are embossed with patterns and precision designs. Water boiled in a Nambu-tekki iron kettle is said to leave a pleasantly smooth sensation in the mouth.
4. 福島 Fukushima Prefecture
Aizu Erosoku Illustrated Candles
Nihonbashi Fukushima-kan Midette
Aizu Erosoku candles are often illustrated with flowers, making them a suitable winter substitute for flowers on household Buddhist altars. The candles are made using the traditional method of repeatedly dipping the wick in wax and allowing the wax to dry.
5. 石川 Ishikawa Prefecture
Kutani-yaki Ceramics
Ishikawa Hyakumangoku Monogatari, Edo Honten
The ornate, colorful illustrations are the main appeal of Kutani-yaki porcelain. Red, yellow, green, purple and dark blue are the five main tones in the palette, giving a strikingly vibrant impression. Kutani-yaki adds zest to everyday life.
6. 京都 Kyoto Prefecture
Nishijin-ori Woven Cloth
Kyoto-kan
This is a luxurious silken fabric woven in the Nishijin district of Kyoto. Fanciful patterns using threads of many colors have made it famous. Nishijin-ori comes in many different types, each depending on the thread and weave used.
7. 広島 Hiroshima Prefecture
Kendama Cup and Ball Game
Hiroshima Brand Shop TAU
Kendama have attracted an avid following worldwide, especially among the young. Kendama have a long history, and there are a number of theories about their origin. The shape favored today was born in 1919 in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture.
8. 島根 Shimane Prefecture
Washi Temari Balls
Nihonbashi Shimane-kan
Temari balls are found throughout the country. Temari from Matsue City in Shimane Prefecture have a rustic, homey appearance. Balls made from traditional Izumo-washi paper are embroidered to make a flowering collage of colored paper.
9. 山口 Yamaguchi Prefecture
Hagi-yaki Ceramics
Oidemase Yamaguchi-kan
Hagi-yaki was developed to supply tea ceremony teacups. Pale colors, especially light orange and beige, are a special feature. Over time, the delicate cracks in the glazing add to the charm of the cups.
10. 香川 Kagawa Prefecture
Marugame Uchiwa Fans
Tokushima/Kagawa Tomoni Ichiba
The materials used in these fans are all from Shikoku, one of the four main islands of Japan, located southwest of Tokyo. The bamboo is from Ehime Prefecture, the washi paper from Kochi Prefecture, and the glue from Tokushima Prefecture. The artisan goes methodically through all the steps to make sure the uchiwa will yield the most refreshing breeze, indispensable for summer in Japan.
11. 沖縄 Okinawa Prefecture
Ryukyu Glass
Ginza Washita Shop
The bubbles of air scattered through the colorful glass are a throwback to the days when, after World War II, empty beer and soft drink bottles were melted down for recycling. The shining hues remind us of nature in Okinawa.
