This is an Oval Serving Tray with Handles, handwoven from Suzutake bamboo.
Even among oval-shaped baskets, the finish varies slightly depending on the artisan.
For this reason, we categorize them into Types A, B, C, and D.

This page introduces the Type D version.
The alphabetical labels (A, B, etc.) simply indicate shape differences based on the maker.
They do not reflect any ranking in terms of quality or craftsmanship.

The Type D oval serving tray comes in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large.

You can use it not only for serving soba or udon,
but also as a plate for bread or rice balls, or to present sweets on the table.

In its region of origin, this type is often simply called a strainer or moriki (serving tray),
reflecting its versatile role in daily life.

Suzutake bamboo is known for its glossy surface, soft yet resilient texture, and overall durability.
One of its pleasures is the way it gradually deepens in color over time—
from pale green to a warm amber tone.
Even after years of use, washing it with water brings back a natural sheen to the surface,
a sign of just how exceptional the material is.

With its distinctive shape and ease of use,
this is a piece that fits comfortably in the hand and will serve you well for many years.
Please choose the size that best suits your needs.

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.