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In the Hiruzen region of Okayama Prefecture—nestled at the foot of the mountains separating Tottori and Okayama—gama craft has been passed down for over 600 years.

The plant used, known as “gama” in Japanese and written – 蒲 – in kanji, is deeply familiar to people in Japan. It grows widely across the country, from Hokkaido in the north to the southern island of Kyushu, and is even found in place names throughout the country.

Interestingly, it’s said that the Japanese words kamaboko (a steamed fish cake) and kabayaki (a style of grilled eel) were inspired by the shape of the cattail’s flower spike—thick and sausage-like, much like these foods.

In Hiruzen’s cattail craft, artisans use a specific variety called Himegama, and even today, they continue to make everyday tools from it.

Although Himegama naturally grows in wetlands, the artisans who create these baskets take care of cultivating the plants themselves.

This variety of cattail is lightweight and naturally contains oils, which give it excellent water resistance and moisture retention.

Originally, these baskets were designed as carrying packs for food supplies during travel or transport. In the past, they were even used to make items like snow shoes.

In addition to Himegama, another key material is the inner bark fiber of the Shinanoki tree (Japanese linden).
Locally, this fiber is affectionately called “Yamakage.”

To prepare it, the bark is soaked in river water and fermented, then carefully peeled off in thin layers, following the grain of the tree rings.

“The smell of yamakage before it dries is really something!” the artisans say with a laugh—
a moment that reflects just how joyfully and wholeheartedly they approach their work.

Among them, this is the Koshigo, a type of carrying basket
that can be considered original to Hiruzen’s cattail craft.

When you try carrying it on your back, the first thing that surprises you is how light it is.
Then, thanks to the softness unique to cattail, it fits gently and comfortably against your back.

Because the Koshigo naturally conforms to the shape of your body,
the weight does not concentrate on one area, such as the shoulders, making it easy to carry.
If people more than 600 years ago used it to carry heavy supplies like rice,
it must have been the ideal material and shape—this basket makes perfect sense.

The material is soft, which makes it gentle on clothing and less likely to cause damage.

“Strong and light” may be the essence of any good basket,
and this cattail craft embodies those qualities beautifully,
faithfully bringing out the natural characteristics of both Himegama and Yamakage.

The natural oils of the cattail give off a subtle luster—a soft, milky sheen that feels both fresh and elegant.
Because the basket itself is light, it remains easy to carry even when filled with various items.

Its simple design, unchanged from the past, offers a balance of practicality and refinement,
quietly evoking a timeless sense of charm.

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.