This is a sturdy, rectangular basket with handles.

It is a type of bamboo basket called “Goyōkago,”
which was widely used across Japan during the mid-Meiji period.
These baskets were known as delivery baskets, bicycle baskets, or, in larger sizes, laundry shop baskets.

They were used to carry goods for delivery,
loaded onto the rear racks of bicycles, motorcycles, or handcarts.

In the mid-Meiji era, when bicycles with rubber tires and rear carriers became common in Japan, these baskets spread alongside them and were used throughout the country.

At the time, they were used not only by shops but also by traveling merchants and farmers for carrying harvests.

Today, with the rise of plastic baskets and automobiles, bamboo “Goyōkago” have nearly disappeared from everyday life.

This piece is made by a craftsman who first studied the basics of basketry in Kanagawa, and later continued his practice independently in western Tokyo.

He told us that when he first saw a Goyōkago, he was deeply struck by its form and fell in love with it.
His passion was so strong that he decided to become a bamboo craftsman just to make this basket.

He has since relocated from Tokyo to Sado Island in Niigata, where he harvests his own bamboo and makes each basket entirely by hand.

A basket like this, with a rectangular shape, is also known as a “Kakukago,” meaning cornered or square basket.

Making a kakukago requires a unique set of techniques—thick bamboo must be shaved, bent using heat, and transformed from its natural straight form into a square structure.

Creating Goyōkago baskets, in particular, demands great physical strength in the legs and lower back.
As the older artisans retired and no successors remained, production declined drastically across Japan, and today these baskets are extremely rare.

On this page, we introduce the Goyōkago in three sizes—small, medium, and large.

Generally, Goyōkago baskets are made from green bamboo.

“Green bamboo” refers to madake bamboo that is freshly cut and used in its natural green state.
(In contrast, bamboo that has been heat-treated to remove its green hue is called “white bamboo.”)

Now, let us introduce each size.

A rectangular basket like this fits neatly into the corners of a room, against a wall,
or on a shelf without wasting space.
Even when several are placed side by side, they look tidy and well-organized.

If placed directly on flooring, dragging the bamboo base may cause scratches on the surface.

If that concerns you, it’s best to place a cloth or paper underneath,
or attach felt pads to the points where the bottom support bamboos touch the floor.

During the era when Goyōkago baskets were widely produced (from the Meiji to the Showa period),
bamboo crafts such as baskets and sieves made from green bamboo were generally called “aramono,”
meaning simple household goods.

The Goyōkago featured here, however, stands apart from such “aramono” pieces.
It is exceptionally well made, with clean, precise workmanship throughout,
showing that when handled properly, it can be used for many years.

Unlike fine bamboo work that uses thin strips similar to sasa leaves,
green bamboo craftsmanship allows for thicker, wider strips to be taken from the material.
This makes it durable enough for everyday, heavy-duty use such as transport work.

A sturdy, well-built square basket—perfect for both home and professional use.

Please select your preferred size.

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.

Coming soon