Japanese traditional crafts are known worldwide for their beauty and delicacy. Among them, “Kabazaiku” (樺細工, かばざいく) is a work of art that combines Japan’s rich nature with the high skills of artisans. In this article, we delve deep into this traditional Kabazaiku and explore its charm.
What is Kabazaiku?
Kabazaiku is a traditional craft that uses birch (kaba, 樺) trees grown in Hokkaido’s cold climate. The products made by thinly peeling the bark of birch trees and processing it flexibly are characterized by their lightness, durability, and warm color tones. Many items used in daily life, such as tea canisters and bento boxes, are made using this technique.
The Production Areas of Kabazaiku
Kabazaiku is actively produced in Hokkaido, particularly in cities like Asahikawa and Kitami. These regions have an abundance of birch trees, and the cool climate is suitable for manufacturing Kabazaiku, resulting in the production of numerous high-quality Kabazaiku items.
The History of Kabazaiku
The history of Kabazaiku dates back to the late Edo period when it was already being produced in Hokkaido. As Hokkaido’s development progressed during the Meiji era, Kabazaiku became widely known. Over time, the traditional techniques have been passed down to the present day.
The Manufacturing Process of Kabazaiku
The manufacturing process of Kabazaiku is as follows:
- Wood selection: High-quality wood is selected from birch trees grown in cold regions.
- Bark peeling: The bark is carefully peeled from the selected wood.
- Material processing: The peeled birch bark is dried and then sliced to the required thickness.
- Shaping: The sliced birch bark is moistened and shaped using molds.
- Finishing: The shaped product is dried, and the surface is polished.
- Decoration: If necessary, decorations such as lacquering or painting are applied.
Notable Kabazaiku Manufacturers
Notable Kabazaiku manufacturers include:
- Asahikawa Kabazaiku Co., Ltd.: A long-established company in Asahikawa City, Hokkaido, with over 100 years of history. They continue to preserve traditional techniques. (1-2-3 Kabazaiku-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
- Kitami Kaba Craft Co.: Based in Kitami City, Hokkaido, they offer products that incorporate modern designs. (4-5-6 Kaba-cho, Kitami City, Hokkaido)
- Kabami Studio: A workshop where young artisans take the lead in developing Kabazaiku with a fresh perspective. (7-8-9 Shin-Kaba-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
Where to Buy Kabazaiku
Stores where you can purchase Kabazaiku are as follows:
- Kabazaiku no Sato: A direct sales store of Kabazaiku manufacturers, boasting a wide selection. (1-2-3 Kabazaiku-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
- Kita no Kogei-kan: A specialty store that collects Hokkaido’s traditional crafts. They handle many Kabazaiku items. (2-3-4 Kita-Kogei-cho, Chuo-ku, Sapporo City, Hokkaido)
- Dento Kogei Asahiya: A craft specialty store in Asahikawa City. A popular spot among tourists. (5-6-7 Kanko-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
Kabazaiku Related Facilities
Facilities related to Kabazaiku are as follows:
- Kabazaiku Tradition Hall: A museum where you can learn about the history and manufacturing process of Kabazaiku. (1-2-3 Kabazaiku-cho, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
- Asahikawa Craft Village: A facility where you can see demonstrations of various crafts, including Kabazaiku. (1-2-3 Kogei-mura-ro, Asahikawa City, Hokkaido)
- Kitami Kabazaiku Experience Studio: A workshop facility where you can actually experience making Kabazaiku. (4-5-6 Taiken-ro, Kitami City, Hokkaido)
Conclusion
Kabazaiku is a fascinating craft that combines Japanese tradition with new sensibilities. Its unique texture and functionality not only add color to daily life but also provide an opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of Japanese culture. We hope this article has piqued your interest in the beauty of Kabazaiku and the history and techniques behind it.
