{"product_id":"220901","title":"Utility Basket “Goyōkago” \/ Madake Bamboo \/ Niigata-JPN 220901","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40672\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_107.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a sturdy, rectangular basket with handles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is a type of bamboo basket called “Goyōkago,”\u003cbr\u003ewhich was widely used across Japan during the mid-Meiji period.\u003cbr\u003eThese baskets were known as delivery baskets, bicycle baskets, or, in larger sizes, laundry shop baskets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey were used to carry goods for delivery,\u003cbr\u003eloaded onto the rear racks of bicycles, motorcycles, or handcarts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40700 size-full\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_106.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the mid-Meiji era, when bicycles with rubber tires and rear carriers became common in Japan, these baskets spread alongside them and were used throughout the country.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt the time, they were used not only by shops but also by traveling merchants and farmers for carrying harvests.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, with the rise of plastic baskets and automobiles, bamboo “Goyōkago” have nearly disappeared from everyday life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46067 size-full\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_20.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece is made by a craftsman who first studied the basics of basketry in Kanagawa, and later continued his practice independently in western Tokyo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe told us that when he first saw a Goyōkago, he was deeply struck by its form and fell in love with it.\u003cbr\u003eHis passion was so strong that he decided to become a bamboo craftsman just to make this basket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe has since relocated from Tokyo to Sado Island in Niigata, where he harvests his own bamboo and makes each basket entirely by hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46075 size-full\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_2-1.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA basket like this, with a rectangular shape, is also known as a “Kakukago,” meaning cornered or square basket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaking a kakukago requires a unique set of techniques—thick bamboo must be shaved, bent using heat, and transformed from its natural straight form into a square structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreating Goyōkago baskets, in particular, demands great physical strength in the legs and lower back.\u003cbr\u003eAs the older artisans retired and no successors remained, production declined drastically across Japan, and today these baskets are extremely rare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40674\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/MG_4242.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn this page, we introduce the Goyōkago in three sizes—small, medium, and large.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGenerally, Goyōkago baskets are made from green bamboo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Green bamboo” refers to madake bamboo that is freshly cut and used in its natural green state.\u003cbr\u003e(In contrast, bamboo that has been heat-treated to remove its green hue is called “white bamboo.”)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40675\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_118.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIts defining features include the thick rim, the strong vertical supports that run through the basket, and the fine strips woven in a “gozame-ami” pattern.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40676\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_119.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThese elements together form the standard structure of a Goyōkago.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40681\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_124.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe green hue of the bamboo gradually shifts over time and environment, taking on a soft golden tone similar to white bamboo.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40677\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_120.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAnother key feature is the pair of side handles, designed for convenient loading, carrying, and transport.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40678\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_121.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the inside of the basket. It has hand openings built into the sides, allowing you to slip your hands through to lift it. The handle area is tightly wrapped with rattan, so there is no rough bamboo texture against the hand, making it comfortable to hold.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40682\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_117.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe vertical support bamboos running through the basket are woven into the inner edge. To bend the bamboo, the inner side is shaved thin and heated with fire to soften it, leaving slight scorch marks. Copper wire is also wrapped around the rim and the supports for reinforcement.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40754\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/211201_368-3.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIn the bent sections of these supports, the bamboo’s outer skin may sometimes peel slightly due to drying. This is an unavoidable occurrence that even careful craftsmanship cannot fully prevent. Some baskets may already have such peeling when delivered; please note that this is not considered a defect. (The photo shown is of a different green bamboo product made by another artisan.)\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40683\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_116.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIn this Goyōkago, rattan is also wrapped around the bent portions of the vertical supports along the rim to help reduce peeling.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40680\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_123.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe basket bottom is woven in the “ikada-zoko-ami”, a technique often used for making sturdy baskets.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40679\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_122.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eOn the underside, multiple support bamboos run across the base, creating a very solid foundation.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40756\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_111-1.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNow, let us introduce each size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_115.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40685\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_115.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the small size.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_19.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46068\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_19.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eHere is an image of its scale. Though called “small,” it is fairly large for a basket and offers plenty of storage capacity for home use.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_11.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40688\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_11.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt can hold a generous amount of root vegetables such as onions and potatoes, or be used to store jars, cans, magazines, or newspapers.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_114.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40689\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_114.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the medium size. Despite the name, it also has considerable capacity.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_17.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46071\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_17.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt’s useful for storing larger or heavier items such as tools, or for keeping small toys neatly organized.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_21.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46072\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_21.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt can also hold drink cans, condiment bottles, and other pantry items.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_113.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40692\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_113.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eNext is the large size.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40693\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_2.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt has an impressive presence.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_7.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40694\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_7.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt’s ideal for storing emergency goods or preserved food—you can see the contents at a glance, making it easy to rotate stock or check supplies.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_8.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40695\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_8.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt also works well for camping gear and other outdoor items. With its handles, it can be carried and loaded into a car with ease.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46073\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_22-1.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rectangular basket like this fits neatly into the corners of a room, against a wall,\u003cbr\u003eor on a shelf without wasting space.\u003cbr\u003eEven when several are placed side by side, they look tidy and well-organized.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf placed directly on flooring, dragging the bamboo base may cause scratches on the surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf that concerns you, it’s best to place a cloth or paper underneath,\u003cbr\u003eor attach felt pads to the points where the bottom support bamboos touch the floor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-46074\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime220901_14.jpg\" height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the era when Goyōkago baskets were widely produced (from the Meiji to the Showa period),\u003cbr\u003ebamboo crafts such as baskets and sieves made from green bamboo were generally called “aramono,”\u003cbr\u003emeaning simple household goods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Goyōkago featured here, however, stands apart from such “aramono” pieces.\u003cbr\u003eIt is exceptionally well made, with clean, precise workmanship throughout,\u003cbr\u003eshowing that when handled properly, it can be used for many years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike fine bamboo work that uses thin strips similar to sasa leaves,\u003cbr\u003egreen bamboo craftsmanship allows for thicker, wider strips to be taken from the material.\u003cbr\u003eThis makes it durable enough for everyday, heavy-duty use such as transport work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA sturdy, well-built square basket—perfect for both home and professional use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease select your preferred size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-40698\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/240402_112.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis item ships from Japan.\u003cbr\u003eAs the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.\u003cbr\u003eThese costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.\u003cbr\u003ePlease check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComing soon\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1basketry","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":45297211408533,"sku":"220901-1","price":33000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":45297211441301,"sku":"220901-2","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":45297211474069,"sku":"220901-3","price":52800.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/9799\/0549\/files\/ime220901_8.jpg?v=1742182975","url":"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/220901","provider":"市川籠店 | 1basketry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}