This is a deep-style zaru (strainer basket) made from madake bamboo.

It comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—to suit different needs.

Commonly used in the kitchen, this type of zaru plays many roles in everyday cooking.

It’s perfect for rinsing vegetables, draining boiled foods or noodles,
and more—offering simple, reliable support for your daily prep.

This artisan has worked with bamboo since his youth,
and even now—well into his 90s—he continues to dedicate himself

From oversized commercial strainers to small baskets for everyday home use,
he has created just about every kind of bamboo piece used across Ibaraki and the surrounding Kanto region, including the Tokyo area.

It’s no exaggeration to say he’s something of a bamboo-making superhero.

After draining noodles, you can rinse them under running water or place the entire basket into a bowl of ice water to cool them down.
Its sturdy construction lets you use it with confidence.

In the photo above, the three sizes are shown nested together.
However, since each basket is handmade, there may be slight variations in size.

If you order different sizes (for example, one Medium and one Large), we may not be able to nest them together for shipping.
Thank you for your understanding.

If you’re unsure about which size to choose, we usually recommend going one size up.

These baskets are often used around the sink for rinsing noodles or vegetables.
Since these foods can become quite heavy when holding water, filling the basket to its full capacity may cause it to wear out more quickly.

If your storage space allows, choosing a slightly larger size will give you more flexibility—and help your basket last longer.

We invite you to compare the different sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki

In Ibaraki Prefecture,
a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.

Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life,
while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.

Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people
—we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.

These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything.
From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts,
they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.