The Nemagari bamboo craft of the Oguni area in Kitakata City, Fukushima Prefecture, varied from one hamlet to another.
Some specialized in making sieves, while others focused on baskets.

The Nemagari bamboo harvested around Lake Oguni, where fields of Nikkōkisuge grow in abundance, is a type of dwarf bamboo that grows in cold, snowy mountains at high altitudes, and its diameter is about 0.20 to 0.31 inches.

Since the early Edo period, people have crafted this Nemagari bamboo using only a hatchet, making daily tools such as sieves and baskets for everyday life.
Bamboo work in this region also served as an important source of income during winter, when farming could not be done.

These carrying baskets were made by an artisan who lives in a hamlet known for its basket making.

Nemagari bamboo craft from Oguni is characterized by its simplicity, ruggedness, and strength.
Artisans do not make the strips too uniform in width;
they often use thicker strips or even half-split pieces of Nemagari bamboo as they are.

Rather than shaping the basket freely according to their preference,
they make use of the natural flexibility and strength of Nemagari bamboo,
and then carefully adjust the shape by hand.
Though the weave may not be perfectly even, the basket’s firm and solid structure is a defining feature.

All three types are made in nearly the same way.

We will now introduce the three types in order.

Since Nemagari bamboo work from Oguni makes use of the natural bends of the material,
a variation of about 1.2″ to 2.0″ in shape or size is common.
We recommend allowing a little extra room when considering the dimensions.

These baskets can be used by attaching a cord to wear them around the waist or on the back,
to collect and carry vegetables, mushrooms, or mountain greens.
They are also ideal for home gardening.

Alternatively, they can serve as storage baskets indoors.

This Nemagari bamboo craft carries the rustic charm of nature,
and its quiet, earthy presence makes it a reliable companion in daily life.

Please note:
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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.