This is a handwoven tote basket made from Akebi vine.

The bark that naturally covers the surface of the vine is left intact,
giving the basket a warm and rustic character.
Its charm lies in the unrefined, organic beauty of the material just as it is found in nature.

In Nagano, there are also baskets made from gray Akebi vine,
known as Muki Akebi, in which the bark is removed before weaving.

This page features a light, airy tote basket woven in the Sukashi-ami style,
available in two sizes: Small and Medium.

The Akebi vines retain their natural texture and coloring,
just as they were harvested wild from the mountains.

Its soft gradation of earthy tones and calm coloring give the basket a quiet sense of character.
You could look at it endlessly and still find peace and warmth in its presence.

The Sukashi-ami gives a light, airy impression when carried.
Akebi vine tote baskets pair beautifully with traditional Japanese attire,
but they also go wonderfully with casual styles like denim.

Beyond everyday outings, this basket works well as a work bag for commuting,
or as a companion for visiting the cinema or an art museum.
It’s a piece you’ll likely carry with you for years to come, in many different moments of your life.

Please choose the size that suits you best.

_Akebi Vine Basketry from Northern Nagano_

In Nagano, since the early Edo period, people have crafted baskets, toys, and other daily tools
as winter work during the region’s long, snow-filled months.

There are two types of Akebi vine used in basketry:
one with its natural bark intact—a warm brown color—
and another called Muki Akebi, a grayish vine that has been peeled after fermentation.

While Akebi vine craft is also found in parts of Tohoku such as Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata,
Muki Akebi basketry is a tradition that continues only in this region.

Before weaving begins, the vines are soaked in hot spring water for about a week,
then fermented in river water for around a month before the bark is carefully removed.

It is said that in the past, all Akebi baskets in northern Nagano were made exclusively from Muki Akebi.

This material requires great time and effort before it can even be woven,
but the baskets that emerge from it carry a quiet depth—something only this land can produce.

Both Akebi and Muki Akebi vines are carefully selected for quality,
and skilled hands continue to craft them into a wide variety of beautiful forms.

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.