Wajima Lacquerware Taigadou
A Wajima-nuri "Nurishiya" passing on tradition and innovation since 1922.
Wajima Lacquerware Taigadou is a "Nurishiya" (manufacturer and seller) located in Wajima City, Ishikawa Prefecture, the home of Japan's renowned Wajima-nuri lacquerware. Since our founding in the Taisho era, we have preserved traditional robust techniques while proposing lacquerware that harmonizes with modern living. From traditional bowls and tiered boxes to new lacquer art creations like knives and fountain pens, we deliver authentic Wajima-nuri imbued with the craftsmanship of artisans.
Why We Love It
An orthodox of Wajima-nuri that embodies "robust elegance." Vessels created without any compromise across over 100 processes — you feel "strength" and "gentleness" the moment you hold them. Of course there are traditional bowls, but innovative items matched to modern lifestyles — such as the lacquered "Mobile Altar" and "fountain pens" — are also must-sees. A craft you can repair and use down to your grandchildren's generation — truly SDGs-aligned in the real sense.
PROFILE About the Company / Workshop
The history of Wajima Lacquerware Taigadou dates back to 1922 (Taisho 11), when the founder, Heikichi Wakashima, started the lacquerware business. The following year, the second generation, Noboru, established the predecessor "Wakashima-ya Lacquerware Shop." At that time, transportation was undeveloped, so the Nurishiya would wrap lacquerware in a furoshiki cloth, carry it on their backs, and walk across the country to sell their goods. That honest trade and trust in quality form the foundation of Taigadou today.
Wajima-nuri boasts unparalleled durability due to the "Honkataji" technique, which involves applying multiple layers of undercoat mixed with jinoko (diatomaceous earth). Taigadou has faithfully protected this traditional technique. As the eras changed from Showa to Heisei and Reiwa, and even as we incorporated and expanded our store, our respect for handwork and commitment to quality have remained unchanged.
Under the current fifth-generation president, Kisao Wakashima, we are challenging ourselves not only to inherit tradition but also to expand sales channels and develop new products. Through approaches to overseas markets and collaborations with other industries, we re-evaluate the antibacterial properties and beauty of lacquer, continuing to explore the role of lacquerware in modern society.
In Taigadou's showroom, items range from art pieces by Living National Treasures to chopsticks and spoons for daily use. What you find there are not mere tools, but "works" imbued with the soul of the craftsman. We hope that more people will come to know the charm of Wajima-nuri, which increases in gloss and deepens in affection the more it is used.
"Use good things for a long time." In these days when SDGs are emphasized, Wajima-nuri has embodied that spirit for hundreds of years. Lacquerware that can be repaired and used continuously is truly the ultimate eco-product. Wajima Lacquerware Taigadou will connect that spirit and technology to the next generation as a bearer of lacquer culture.
Commitment and quality control as a "Nurishiya"
In the production of Wajima-nuri, which typically involves a division of labor, Taigadou takes pride in being a "Nurishiya" that oversees and manages the entire process. From woodworking to undercoating, top-coating, and decoration (Makie/Chinkin), we collaborate with skilled artisans to execute over 100 steps without compromise. We guarantee the true quality of Wajima-nuri, known for its "robust elegance."
Wide lineup from traditional tables to "Mobile Altars"
While offering traditional lacquerware such as soup bowls, tiered boxes, and low tables, we are also active in developing products for modern lifestyles. We create many unique items that expand the possibilities of lacquer, such as portable "Mobile Altars" and "Lacquer-coated Knives (handles/sheaths)" loved by professional chefs.
Passing on to the next generation through repair and restoration
Wajima-nuri is meant to be passed down "from parent to child, from child to grandchild." Taigadou accepts requests for repair and recoating of lacquerware damaged by long-term use. We handle not only our own products but also others, restoring them to their original beauty and strength with reliable techniques. We continue to support the spirit of cherishing things through lacquerware.