Throughout its long history, Fukuoka Prefecture has produced a wide variety of traditional crafts that are deeply connected to the local culture and natural environment. The crafts made in each region are filled with the passion and skill of the artisans, and each has an interesting story behind them. In this article, we will introduce in detail some representative crafts that you should definitely experience when visiting Fukuoka Prefecture, including a historical perspective.
Oishiwara Pottery (Toho Village)
History and Background:
Koishiwara ware was born in the 1670s, early in the Edo period, based on pottery techniques introduced from the Korean Peninsula. The Koishiwara area in particular flourished as a place suitable for pottery, surrounded by beautiful nature and rich in high-quality clay. Decorative techniques such as "flying plane" and "brush marks," characteristic of Koishiwara ware, are strongly influenced by Korean potters of the time.
Features:
Its appeal lies in its durability and simple design, making it ideal for everyday use. There are about 50 kilns scattered around the area, and you can enjoy the different designs and techniques at each workshop. At the annual "Oishiwara Pottery Market," you can have a special experience of interacting directly with the craftsmen and finding your favorite piece.
Kurume Kasuri (Kurume City, Chikugo City, Hirokawa Town, etc.)
History and Background:
Kurume Kasuri was born in Kurume City in the early 19th century. It began when a farmer's daughter, Den Inoue, invented a technique for weaving patterns using indigo-dyed thread. Kurume Kasuri is characterized by a unique pattern called "kasuri," and in the Edo period it spread throughout the country as farmer clothing, becoming an important daily necessity.
Features:
It is characterized by its deep indigo dyed color and its durable, breathable texture. In recent years, it has also been applied to clothing, accessories, and interior design, allowing you to enjoy it in a new way that combines modern sensibility with tradition.
Hakata Dolls (Fukuoka City and other areas)
History and Background:
Hakata dolls are a craft that began in the Fukuoka domain in the early Edo period, and were originally used as decorations for the Gion Festival and other annual events. As samurai culture spread to the common people, they developed into decorative items depicting beautiful women and children. In the Meiji period, they won a gold medal at the Paris World Exposition, and became known worldwide.
Features:
Characterized by detailed depictions of facial expressions and vivid colors, you can also have a custom-made doll modeled after a loved one, making it a popular gift.
Hakata-ori (Fukuoka City and other areas)
History and Background:
The origins of Hakata-ori date back to the Kamakura period. At that time, weaving techniques brought by traders from Song (China) took root in Fukuoka, and were later improved upon after Toyotomi Hideyoshi's invasion of Korea. During the Edo period, it became a special product of the Fukuoka domain and was presented to feudal lords, leading to its name becoming known throughout the country.
Features:
The obi is thick and firm, and does not easily come loose, making it an ideal item for women who love kimonos. Nowadays, they are also used for wallets and bags, and their modern Japanese designs are gaining popularity.
Magoji Kite (Kitakyushu City)
History and Background:
The history of "Magoji Kites" dates back to the end of the Meiji period, when Mr. Magoji Takeuchi began making them in Kitakyushu City. At the time, kites were widely used as toys for children, but the unique designs and playfulness of Magoji kites made them beloved by local people.
Features:
The unique "Cicada Kites" are made from bamboo and washi paper, and feature cute eyes and vibrant colors. They can still be seen at festivals and events today.
Okawa Kumiko (Okawa City)
History and Background:
Okawa City is known as one of Japan's leading furniture production areas, and the technique of Kumiko craftsmanship has been handed down since the Edo period. Kumiko is a highly advanced technique for precisely assembling pieces of wood without using any nails, and was highly valued as fittings for samurai residences during the Edo period.
Features:
Kumiko craftsmanship, with its beautiful geometric patterns, creates a kaleidoscope-like effect when light passes through it. Today, it is used not only as building materials, but also as lampshades and interior accessories.
Yame Lanterns (Yame City and other areas)
History and Background:
The origins of Yame lanterns date back to the Edo period. At the time, Yame City flourished as a producer of Japanese paper, and lanterns began to be made using that high-quality paper. By the Meiji period, the lanterns had become known nationwide, and were widely used at festivals at shrines and temples.
Features:
They are characterized by the transparency of the handmade washi paper and the gorgeous paintings hand-painted by artisans. There is a diverse lineup, from large lanterns for festivals to interior lights for the home.
Ueno ware (Fukuchi town)
History and Background:
Agano ware is a traditional pottery that dates back to the Muromachi period and has a history of over 400 years. With the development of tea ceremony culture, it was used as tea utensils, and in modern times, its artistic and practical qualities have been recognized and it has become known nationwide.
Features:
The combination of thin vessels and colorful glazes is beautiful, and the designs are suited to modern lifestyles.
Yame Fukushima Buddhist Altar (Yame City and other areas)
History and Background:
Yame Butsudan began in the mid-Edo period, and originated from the application of techniques used in temple construction to the production of Buddhist altars. Since they are made by multiple specialized craftsmen in a division of labor, each of their respective techniques is brought together.
Features:
The magnificent and splendid designs, with their woodcarving, lacquer painting, and lacquer painting decorations, are the culmination of artisanal skill. They are traditional crafts that have developed together with the religious culture of the region.
Fukuoka's traditional crafts are full of unique charm, as they are a reflection of the region's nature, culture, and history. On your next visit, be sure to experience these crafts and savor the deep cultural charm of Fukuoka!
Don't forget to pick up one of our local T-shirts as a souvenir!
