This is a basket handwoven from Suzutake bamboo.

It has a hexagonal rim and a raised base.

There is also a handled version of this basket, which is commonly known in the region as a tofu basket.

In this area, tofu baskets were everyday items.
When the tofu vendor came around, people would take these baskets with them to make their purchase.

Because tofu is delicate and easily damaged, it was placed in its own basket, separate from other items.

One characteristic of this basket is the open weave at the bottom, which allows for excellent drainage.

This page introduces two sizes of the Hexagonal Basket: Small and Large.

This hexagonal basket incorporates multiple weaving techniques—
a combination of muttsume-ami and gozame-ami, rim wrapping, and the addition of a raised base.
It is said that being able to make this basket is a sign
that one has become a full-fledged Suzutake craftsperson in Iwate.

In the past, it was used as a draining basket for tofu.
However, the side walls are woven using the inner,
more fibrous side of the bamboo rather than the water-repellent outer skin.
Because the material can absorb moisture and retain dampness,
leading to mold in modern home environments,
this basket is not recommended for draining washed dishes or for use as a colander.

This basket is well-suited for setting down items you’ve washed and lightly dried—
like teacups or bowls you use regularly and want to air out a bit longer.
It’s also ideal for holding tea-time sets, bread, sweets, or fresh fruit.

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 a form unlike any other, this basket is truly one of a kind.
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.