Journal – "Weaving Words"
A Journey to Wakayama in Search of Black Bamboo...
In the final part of my visit to Kanasaki Bamboo Materials in Wakayama, I look at how black bamboo branches, tips, and leaves are carefully put to use, from Nagaho...
A Journey to Wakayama in Search of Black Bamboo...
In this second part of my visit to Kanasaki Bamboo Materials in Wakayama, I follow the process of preparing black bamboo for shipment—from removing branches and cutting to length, to...
A Journey to Wakayama in Search of Black Bamboo...
In early summer 2026, I visited Kanasaki Bamboo Materials in Wakayama to learn more about black bamboo. From harvesting and caring for the groves to the way young green bamboo...
1basketry | Basketry Exhibition & Sale in Nara
This September, 1basketry will hold its first Basketry Exhibition & Sale in the Kansai region. Join us in Nara to explore handcrafted baskets, bamboo ware, and other traditional works from...
Welcome to Japan, Manfred
Manfred, one of the organisers of the Basketry Festival in Lichtenfels, Germany, visited Japan. This journal follows a one-day trip to Yamanashi, where we visited Chikuseido, enjoyed local food and...
Welcome to Japan, Manfred
Kaoru Saito’s Atelier—and into the Forest
A visit to Kaoru Saito’s atelier and forest in Yamagata, where bark and vine crafts are made from Grapevine, Akebi, Walnut, Matatabi, and other mountain materials.