Hida Shunkei Lacquerware

Hida Shunkei lacquerware is said to have originated in the early 17th century in Takayama, where high-quality timber used for temple and shrine construction inspired artisans to create lacquerware that showcases the beauty of wood grain with transparent lacquer. Over the centuries it has become recognized as one of the representative traditional crafts of the Hida-Takayama area.

Nakayama Shikki Co., Ltd. is headquartered and operates its workshop in Takumigaoka-machi, Takayama City. The company overview states that it was founded in 1977 and that its business includes the manufacture and sale of Hida Shunkei lacquerware as well as the sale of lacquerware from other regions. From this base in Takayama, the company supplies Hida Shunkei pieces to customers across Japan.

Production combines the skills of “kijishi” and “nurishi”. Woodturners select and shape solid wood into trays, bowls and boxes, taking advantage of each board’s grain pattern. Lacquer artisans then refine natural urushi and blend different lacquers to create the clear Hida Shunkei finish, adjusting their techniques according to seasonal changes in temperature and humidity.

Freshly finished Hida Shunkei pieces have a relatively calm tone, but with daily use the color becomes clearer and deeper, and the wood grain appears more vivid. Small scratches and changes in color are regarded as part of the charm of the piece, reflecting the passage of time in the owner’s life and reinforcing the idea of lacquerware as something to be used and “grown” over many years.

The product lineup includes traditional trays, place settings, bowls, confectionery dishes, jubako (tiered boxes) and bento boxes, as well as items designed for contemporary lifestyles such as cafe au lait bowls, rock cups and Western-style plates. Nakayama Shikki also produces interior accessories, stationery and commemorative items for orders such as decorations and awards, and supplies Hida Shunkei lacquerware for hotels and restaurants.

Through the official website, online shop and Rakuten store, customers can browse products by category and learn about the history and production of Hida Shunkei. In this way, Nakayama Shikki presents Hida Shunkei lacquerware as a craft that can be enjoyed not only as a souvenir from Takayama but also as part of everyday life at home, both in Japan and overseas.

A leading maker of Hida Shunkei lacquerware in Takayama

According to the company profile, Nakayama Shikki is engaged in the manufacturing and sales of Hida Shunkei lacquerware in Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. The official site introduces the history of Hida Shunkei, the production process, artisans and scenes from daily life, positioning the company as a local manufacturer that carries on this regional craft tradition while supplying products throughout Japan.

Transparent amber lacquer and the skills of two types of artisans

Hida Shunkei is created through the collaboration of two types of artisans: “kijishi” (woodturners) who shape the wooden base while preserving the grain, and “nurishi” (lacquer painters) who apply carefully refined natural urushi. By applying clear amber lacquer in multiple layers, they achieve a finish in which the natural wood grain shows through, giving each piece a warm, luminous appearance that is unique to Hida Shunkei.

Lacquerware designed for everyday use, not only for display

The “Daily Life with Hida Shunkei” pages emphasize that these pieces are meant to be used every day rather than displayed only as works of art. Examples show Hida Shunkei trays and dishes paired with Japanese sweets, traditional Japanese meals and Western dishes such as coffee and desserts, highlighting how easily the lacquerware fits into a wide variety of table settings.