Kurikyu traces its roots to 1874 in Odate, Akita, where six generations of the Kurimori family have carried forward the region’s woodworking traditions. Each magewappa vessel is formed from thinly planed Akita cedar, softened in hot water, bent into shape, and joined with wild cherry bark. The process preserves the wood’s straight grain, pale warmth, and natural fragrance while creating pieces that feel exceptionally light.

Under sixth-generation craftsman Shunji Kurimori, Kurikyu has brought this inherited technique into contemporary life. His tapered, stackable forms introduced new function without disturbing the craft’s quiet simplicity, earning numerous Good Design and Long Life Design awards. From nesting bowls to wine and ice buckets, each piece pairs precise construction with the warm, understated presence of cedar.