This petit tray is woven from Suzutake bamboo.

It has a charming form, with handles on both sides.
Among Suzutake bamboo works from Iwate,
it belongs to the smallest category of Suzutake craft.

Compared to the “Standard” type introduced on a separate page,
this “Fine” type is finished with greater care in material preparation,
with more even weaving and neatly wrapped edges.

It can be used as a tray for oshibori, or for serving small sweets.
Place a few biscuits or pieces of chocolate, or arrange seasonal wagashi.
It suits everyday use as well as moments of hospitality.

It can also be placed near the entrance to hold house or bicycle keys
or used beside a washbasin or dressing table for hairpins and accessories.

Suzutake bamboo is known for its smooth, glossy surface,
a pleasant suppleness and gentle resilience, and its durability.

Its color gradually deepens into a warm amber tone over time, which is also part of its appeal.
Even after this change, washing with water brings back a subtle sheen to the surface,
showing the material’s lasting quality.

Among the Suzutake trays from Iwate that we carry, there are two types:
the “Fine” type introduced on this page, and the “Standard” type presented on a separate page.

Each type is made by a different craftsperson.
The “Fine” type shown here is carefully made from the preparation of the materials through to the weaving,
the wrapping of the rim, and the finishing of the handles—more meticulously than the “Standard” type.

*See here for the “Standard” type petit tray.

A small tray that gently adds a touch to everyday life.
We hope it will find its place in many moments.

Suzutake Craft from Torigoe, Iwate Prefecture

Torigoe is a small village located in Ichinohe Town, Ninohe District, in the northern part of Iwate Prefecture.
It is well known as a traditional center of Suzutake bamboo craft.

The Suzutake bamboo that grows in the Torigoe region is said to be especially strong and flexible.
For over a thousand years, people in the area have used it to weave durable and practical baskets and tools.

However, since around 2015, many areas of Iwate have experienced a widespread dieback of Suzutake bamboo,
making it increasingly difficult to secure high-quality material.
Since then, sourcing good-quality material has become much more difficult,
making Suzutake craft even more precious today.

It is said that once every 120 years, the bamboo reaches the end of its life cycle,
produces small yellow flowers, and then dies off.
After that, it may take 10 to 20 years for new shoots to grow tall enough to be used in bamboo craft.

Even for the artisans who have worked with Suzutake for many years, this is an unprecedented challenge.
And yet, to keep their craft alive, they continue to walk the mountains carefully,
gathering what little bamboo they can find—
sometimes just a fraction of what was once available—and carrying on the tradition with care.

Please note:
This item ships from Japan.
As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country.
These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.