These are dish drying baskets made of Nemagari bamboo.
On this page, we introduce four types baskets of round and oval shapes, in medium and large sizes, respectively.

It was originally used as a “drainer basket” to wash dishes and drain water.

As time went by, the living environment also changed from airy houses to airtight houses.
The reduced ventilation has made it easier for mold to grow in these bamboo baskets.

Therefore, we do not recommend using this dish drying basket as a “draining basket.”
We suggest using it as a basket for drying washed and well-wiped (or well-drained) dishes, or as a basket for storing well-dried dishes.

Of course, you can use it as a draining basket as before.
However, it is important to check the environment of your home and make sure that it is well ventilated.
It is important to wipe the basket well and dry it after each use.

The medium size is just right for placing dishes for one or two people or four cups.
The large size is just right for placing dishes for 2-4 people.

Can be used for various occasions as a tea set, snack container or fruit basket.

All types have a relatively fine weave for a pleasing appearance and are solidly made with a wide strips.
Both sizes are not too large and can be easily used in modern life.

Please choose your favorite type.

<Nemagari Bamboo Crafts in Togakushi, Nagano Prefecture>

Bamboo crafting began in the early Edo period (1603-1867) as a means of sustenance for the people of the Togakushi Chūsha area.
From the Meiji period to the mid-Showa period（mid-19th century to mid-20th century）,
as the sericulture industry flourished,
the demand for silkworm baskets and other products increased.

In order to protect this important resource,
members of the bamboo craft production cooperative take turns acting as “bamboo shoot guard”
during the spring bamboo shoot season to prevent overharvesting by people who want to use for food.

The surface of the bamboo is polished and split into four pieces, and the skin and body are separated to make strips.
The four most common types of bamboo crafts are
-Colanders(plates),
-Mushroom / fish basket,
-Dish drying basket,
-Winnowing basket.

The beauty and durability of the finished product, as well as the warmth unique to Nemagari bamboo,
make it a practical item that is widely used by the Japanese people even today,
and the color of the product can be enjoyed as it changes over time.