A collection of crafts that highlight the skills of local artisans

• Table of Contents
• Kusatsuyaki
• Gourd
• Metal crafts
• Wrought iron products
• Forged iron products (Japanese swords)

Kusatsuyaki

In Kusatsu, soil containing a large number of particles of various sizes and containing a lot of iron has been produced since ancient times.

The pottery made from this soil is called "Kusatsuyaki." It is heat and water resistant and can be used in the microwave.

The dishes come in muted tones such as black and white, making them easy to pair with a variety of dishes.

If you make a reservation, you can experience pottery making.

Kusatsuyaki homepage is here

Gourd

Long ago, gourds were used for a variety of purposes, such as water bottles for travelers passing through Kusatsu-juku and sake bottles at inns.

Nowadays, it is popular as a lucky charm for good health. (It is considered a lucky charm because "mubyou" (six gourds) and "mubyou" (no illness) which means no illness sound the same.)

"Hyosendo" is the only remaining gourd specialty store in Kusatsu, where you can encounter unique gourd creations made with traditional Kusatsu techniques.

Hyosendo homepage is here

Metal crafts

Metal crafts by master craftsmen in Kusatsu City. They make accessories for Japanese clothing such as hairpins and obi fasteners, as well as accessories that go well with Western clothing.

These beautiful and delicate pieces are based on traditional techniques and incorporate Western techniques, and are designed not to damage the clothing they are worn with.

It is durable and can be enjoyed by generations.

Ginho Kobo Homepage

Wrought iron products

Kusatsu was a region where iron and pottery production flourished around the 7th and 8th centuries.

Today, elegant and intricate pieces are created by artisans using a forged iron technique known as "wrought iron."

We stock a wide range of iron products, including gates, nameplates, handrails, mailboxes, lamps and more.

Naldic website here

Forged iron products (Japanese swords)

This Japanese sword was created by a swordsmith from Kusatsu City, an apprentice of a Living National Treasure, using clay from Kusatsu and traditional techniques that have been passed down through the generations.

This is a masterpiece that pursues the simple beauty that only the real thing can possess, and is characterized by its ayasugihada pattern.

It was newly certified as a Kusatsu brand in fiscal year 2022.

There are also Japanese swords and other iron products such as paperweights.

Tanaka Sadatoyo Swordsmith Homepage