Bamboo grows quickly and remains green even during the cold months, so is thought to be auspicious, along with pine and plum trees. The bamboo motif has been used in Japanese paintings and crafts since ancient times. Outside of art, baskets woven from finely split strands of bamboo called higo have also long been a handy tool for people working in the fields and kitchens.

Today, more and more people are bringing these bamboo baskets back into their lives. Not only are they practical; their handmade warmth and intriguing designs make them a wonderful accent for any interior. Where and how you use them, and which shape of basket you choose, is up to you. Set them next to each other for a decorative touch that doubles as storage space. Highlight the basket handles as objet d’art in themselves. Use them as trays to hold dishware. Or carry them as a summer carryall to make a real fashion statement.

The appeal of Japanese bamboo baskets is found in the variety of sophisticated weave patterns they are available in. Find your favorite at a specialty store or variety shop in any Japanese neighborhood you visit. You’ll surely cherish it as a treasure.