{"product_id":"450814-1","title":"Rice Ball Basket \/ Suzutake Bamboo \/ Iwate-JPN 450814-1","description":"\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32652\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1070.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a rice ball basket handwoven from Suzutake bamboo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLidded baskets made in this region using the traditional \u003cem\u003eajiro-ami\u003c\/em\u003e weaving technique\u003cbr\u003eused to be crafted in a wide range of sizes—\u003cbr\u003efrom large storage trunks called \u003cem\u003ekōri\u003c\/em\u003e to small card cases—by many skilled artisans.\u003cbr\u003eToday, however, due to the decline in the number of weavers, only certain sizes are still being made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32647\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1065.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmong Suzutake crafts, baskets like this—with a separate base and lid that fit together precisely—\u003cbr\u003erequire particularly advanced weaving skills.\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\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/fc11ac7f97c708bf18832e2525cd39bb.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6001\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/fc11ac7f97c708bf18832e2525cd39bb.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis lidded basket is compact, just the right size to hold two rice balls.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/d871e1a51b2ab13dfeb8057e1ae76b61.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6004\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/d871e1a51b2ab13dfeb8057e1ae76b61.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThin strips of Suzutake bamboo are carefully prepared and woven using \u003cem\u003eajiro-ami\u003c\/em\u003e technique.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ac8a2f0a0b130180ab665aaaf36f6bcc.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6002\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/ac8a2f0a0b130180ab665aaaf36f6bcc.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThe rim of the basket is reinforced with a core of sturdy Madake bamboo, around which Suzutake is tightly wound in an upward spiral to finish the edge.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/f20c6aea7319c800da5275258058a69b.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6003\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/f20c6aea7319c800da5275258058a69b.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThanks to Suzutake’s natural flexibility, the basket can withstand sharp angles like these without breaking.\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-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/80615fd6f356364fa83b80fef3aed070.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6006\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/80615fd6f356364fa83b80fef3aed070.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eOn the left is the base, and on the right is the lid. The lid is made just slightly larger to fit snugly over the base.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/2aed63ff1d75a545d6a7a48e3d7629a0.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6005\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/2aed63ff1d75a545d6a7a48e3d7629a0.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/bdbc9444a4fc13043e1d07e51d52627a.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6007\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/bdbc9444a4fc13043e1d07e51d52627a.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eHere is the lid. The inner side of the bamboo strips is smooth and glossy, showing excellent finish quality.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/c525e1043de9f7f39cb18b9c61e823ed.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6008\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/c525e1043de9f7f39cb18b9c61e823ed.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis is the base. It is made using a double-layered structure, with the smooth outer surface of the bamboo strips facing outward—both inside and outside are tightly woven.\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\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/13bafb2993cba54711e887927eb34975.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6009\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/13bafb2993cba54711e887927eb34975.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eThis photo shows the basket turned upside down, with the lid fitting perfectly in place.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/3f9abf228c68ff31cf994f3ac4f2ee9f.jpg\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6010\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/3f9abf228c68ff31cf994f3ac4f2ee9f.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"\u003eWhen opening the basket, don’t hesitate. Place your fingers firmly into the gap between the body and the lid, and lift the lid upward. Suzutake bamboo is flexible and gently gives way under the pressure of your fingers.\u003c\/figcaption\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32645 size-full\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1066.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can place rice balls directly into the basket without wrapping them in plastic or foil.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDepending on your preference or the type of food, you may also choose to line the basket with cooking paper or \u003cem\u003ekyōgi\u003c\/em\u003e (thin sheets of wood).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this example, we lined the bottom and sides with cooking paper and placed two small rice balls along with one piece of fried chicken and one cherry tomato inside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32650\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1067.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32651\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1068.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-32646\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/DSC_1074.jpg\" height=\"795\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause this rice ball basket is made with a double-layered weave,\u003cbr\u003eit requires more careful handling than other lidded baskets made from Suzutake—\u003cbr\u003eespecially in terms of ventilation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe base portion, which uses a double layer of bamboo strips,\u003cbr\u003etends to retain moisture and can be slow to dry.\u003cbr\u003eIf left damp, it may develop mold over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor that reason, we recommend avoiding direct washing with water.\u003cbr\u003eInstead, after allowing the basket to dry thoroughly,\u003cbr\u003egently brush away any dirt with a scrubbing brush,\u003cbr\u003eor use a tightly wrung cloth to wipe off any soiled areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6013\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/8ee3ee96494af9410ab1048f1cd5d81c-1.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe basket also works well as a container for small items,\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuzutake bamboo is known for its glossy surface, soft yet resilient texture, and overall durability.\u003cbr\u003eOne of its pleasures is the way it gradually deepens in color over time—\u003cbr\u003efrom pale green to a warm amber tone.\u003cbr\u003eEven after years of use, washing it with water brings back a natural sheen to the surface,\u003cbr\u003ea sign of just how exceptional the material is.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a basket that fits comfortably in the hand and can be enjoyed for many years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"wp-image-6014\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/ichikawa.ssjp.info\/assets\/uploads\/6b358fd8bde1277eb9ca49f46df2181a.jpg\" height=\"800\" width=\"1200\" decoding=\"async\"\u003e\u003c\/figure\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuzutake Craft from Torigoe, Iwate Prefecture\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTorigoe is a small village located in Ichinohe Town, Ninohe District, in the northern part of Iwate Prefecture.\u003cbr\u003eIt is well known as a traditional center of Suzutake bamboo craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Suzutake bamboo that grows in the Torigoe region is said to be especially strong and flexible.\u003cbr\u003eFor over a thousand years, people in the area have used it to weave durable and practical baskets and tools.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, since around 2015, many areas of Iwate have experienced a widespread dieback of Suzutake bamboo,\u003cbr\u003emaking it increasingly difficult to secure high-quality material.\u003cbr\u003eSince then, sourcing good-quality material has become much more difficult,\u003cbr\u003emaking Suzutake craft even more precious today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is said that once every 120 years, the bamboo reaches the end of its life cycle,\u003cbr\u003eproduces small yellow flowers, and then dies off.\u003cbr\u003eAfter that, it may take 10 to 20 years for new shoots to grow tall enough to be used in bamboo craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven for the artisans who have worked with Suzutake for many years, this is an unprecedented challenge.\u003cbr\u003eAnd yet, to keep their craft alive, they continue to walk the mountains carefully,\u003cbr\u003egathering what little bamboo they can find—\u003cbr\u003esometimes just a fraction of what was once available—and carrying on the tradition with care.\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":"Default Title","offer_id":43504969941141,"sku":"450814-1","price":7150.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0617\/9799\/0549\/files\/DSC_1066.jpg?v=1741836329","url":"https:\/\/1basketry.live\/products\/450814-1","provider":"市川籠店 | 1basketry","version":"1.0","type":"link"}