{"product_id":"311218","title":"Oval Tote Basket – Sukashi Weave \/ Akebi Vine \/ Nagano-JPN 311218","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43942\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a handwoven tote basket made from Akebi vine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/feea19b5d0a988a9ec6e09d1dfa660b7-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43944\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bark that naturally covers the surface of the vine is left intact,\u003cbr\u003egiving the basket a warm and rustic character.\u003cbr\u003eIts charm lies in the unrefined, organic beauty of the material just as it is found in nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Nagano, there are also baskets made from gray Akebi vine,\u003cbr\u003eknown as Muki Akebi, in which the bark is removed before weaving.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/986bb5c022e2d7a7278fa1661baf8437.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7547\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis page features a light, airy tote basket woven in the Sukashi-ami style,\u003cbr\u003eavailable in two sizes: Small and Medium.\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\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/72d2025e4cfc16efc64a6778910d58ba.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/72d2025e4cfc16efc64a6778910d58ba.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7548\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt is woven using the Sukashi-ami, a traditional open-weave technique often used in Akebi crafts. In regions like Aomori, this technique is also known as Kodashi-ami. The open weave is so airy that you can see right through the basket.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/98ed4f0028ef5f45b792b916e55edd29.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/98ed4f0028ef5f45b792b916e55edd29.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7549\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eWhile some Akebi baskets are made using split vines, this one is woven with whole, round vines, preserving the natural texture of wild Akebi just as it is found in the mountains.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/dd095ea54165937f70513bda52fc55c3.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/dd095ea54165937f70513bda52fc55c3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7550\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis pattern is only possible with Akebi vine, known for its flexibility and resilience. The vines curve and interlace with strength and grace, giving the basket a sense of quiet power.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/dbc372668f086343b1fd49aa039992da.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/dbc372668f086343b1fd49aa039992da.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7551\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eHere is the rim of the basket. It is firmly and cleanly constructed.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/902c319ddf14600e070a5e96c3bda3bf.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/902c319ddf14600e070a5e96c3bda3bf.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7552\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe rim is carefully wrapped from both sides and secured inward, forming a strong edge with a shape reminiscent of an arrow’s fletching.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/d5fc236c3c07af5dc2fd750d8f83b67f.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/d5fc236c3c07af5dc2fd750d8f83b67f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7553\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe rim and handle are connected by two interlinked rings, like a chain. This allows the handles to open wide or fold down flat.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/fec4acfad0bfe75176983b78430ae5a2.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/fec4acfad0bfe75176983b78430ae5a2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7554\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eOver time, the joint between the rim and handle is the part most likely to need repair. This ring-style connection lets the handle move more freely, placing less stress on the rim and joints—helping the basket last longer.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/6e6a4910be0b43a9a0b2d4d51f81eb9f.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/6e6a4910be0b43a9a0b2d4d51f81eb9f.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7555\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe handle is formed by wrapping an Akebi vine around a thicker Akebi core, creating a solid grip.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/56e5b9ece43375f9bc8416ea47fa8008.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/56e5b9ece43375f9bc8416ea47fa8008.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7556\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe handles can open outward to this extent, or fold inward neatly. This makes it easy to insert or remove items. As its name Oval Tote Basket suggests, the basket has a softly oval shape.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/b01d43e62f1e43665116a8a800486716.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/b01d43e62f1e43665116a8a800486716.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7557\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe base of the basket is also tightly woven, creating a firm and solid foundation.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/65f5f37774d0915683376f12744fec9e.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/65f5f37774d0915683376f12744fec9e.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7559\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the Small size.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43947\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eIt has enough space to carry your essentials—like your wallet, keys, pouch, and a bottle.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-3.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43948\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eEven in the Small size, the handles are long enough to slip over your arm.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43949\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003ePlease note that both Small and Medium sizes may have slight irregularities in shape, due to their handwoven nature.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-style-default\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/feea19b5d0a988a9ec6e09d1dfa660b7.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/feea19b5d0a988a9ec6e09d1dfa660b7.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7558\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the Medium size.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43950\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eAlthough the weave is open, the contents inside are not very visible.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-7-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43951\"\u003e\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eYou can also cover the basket with a handkerchief-sized cloth, or place a drawstring pouch or fabric bag inside.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43952\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43954\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Akebi vines retain their natural texture and coloring,\u003cbr\u003ejust as they were harvested wild from the mountains.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts soft gradation of earthy tones and calm coloring give the basket a quiet sense of character.\u003cbr\u003eYou could look at it endlessly and still find peace and warmth in its presence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ime311218_-8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43955\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sukashi-ami gives a light, airy impression when carried.\u003cbr\u003eAkebi vine tote baskets pair beautifully with traditional Japanese attire,\u003cbr\u003ebut they also go wonderfully with casual styles like denim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond everyday outings, this basket works well as a work bag for commuting,\u003cbr\u003eor as a companion for visiting the cinema or an art museum.\u003cbr\u003eIt’s a piece you’ll likely carry with you for years to come, in many different moments of your life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease choose the size that suits you best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/4287eb51d27c8a3e517748ee98d4c428.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7563\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e_Akebi Vine Basketry from Northern Nagano_\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Nagano, since the early Edo period, people have crafted baskets, toys, and other daily tools\u003cbr\u003eas winter work during the region’s long, snow-filled months.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two types of Akebi vine used in basketry:\u003cbr\u003eone with its natural bark intact—a warm brown color—\u003cbr\u003eand another called \u003cem\u003eMuki Akebi\u003c\/em\u003e, a grayish vine that has been peeled after fermentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile Akebi vine craft is also found in parts of Tohoku such as Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata,\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eMuki Akebi\u003c\/em\u003e basketry is a tradition that continues only in this region.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore weaving begins, the vines are soaked in hot spring water for about a week,\u003cbr\u003ethen fermented in river water for around a month before the bark is carefully removed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is said that in the past, all Akebi baskets in northern Nagano were made exclusively from \u003cem\u003eMuki Akebi\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis material requires great time and effort before it can even be woven,\u003cbr\u003ebut the baskets that emerge from it carry a quiet depth—something only this land can produce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth Akebi and Muki Akebi vines are carefully selected for quality,\u003cbr\u003eand skilled hands continue to craft them into a wide variety of beautiful forms.\u003c\/p\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","brand":"1basketry","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":43510453633173,"sku":"311218-2","price":28600.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":43510453665941,"sku":"311218-1","price":33000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/9799\/0549\/files\/ime311218_-7.jpg?v=1774414194","url":"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/311218","provider":"市川籠店 | 1basketry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}