Shinodake is a regional Japanese name for several types of slender bamboo grass, and the plant referred to by this name varies from one area to another. Medake is a separate bamboo species, but it is also used to make similar baskets and strainers.

Shinodake and Medake are split into narrow strips and carefully thinned for weaving baskets and strainers. Their smooth outer surface sheds water readily and feels gentle against hands and food. When woven closely, the fine weave helps keep grains of rice from slipping through while allowing water to drain thoroughly, making these materials particularly well suited to rice-washing baskets.

Here, we introduce kitchen tools made from Shinodake and Medake, including rice-washing baskets, vegetable-draining baskets, and other everyday utensils handcrafted by artisans across Japan.