On this page, we introduce four sizes of lidded baskets made from Itaya maple.

Now, let us introduce each size in order.

All sizes can be used as lunch boxes.

For rice balls, you can place them directly;
for sandwiches, side dishes, or fruit that release some moisture or oil,
line the inside with oil paper or a cooking sheet to keep the basket clean.

After using it as a lunch box, if food crumbs remain,
brush them off with a dry scrub brush, remove dust and residue, and store it well-dried in a ventilated place.

When the dirt particularly bothers you, wash with water using a scrub brush,
wipe off the moisture thoroughly, dry it, and then leave it in a well-ventilated place.
If oil has adhered, you may use a mild detergent.
(If there’s no oil, rinsing with water is enough.)

Besides as a lunch basket, it is also useful for storing important items that you want to keep free of dust.

For example, it works for organizing small bowls, teacups, or cups.
It can also hold tea utensils, or tools for hobbies and work.

Because this lidded basket has no reinforcement at the base,
when carrying heavier items such as lunches or tableware, be sure to support the bottom with your hand,
or wrap the whole basket in a large handkerchief or furoshiki before carrying.

At times, the lid itself serves as a basket.
Placing them side by side and using them as two baskets is also convenient.

Itaya maple craft blends naturally into any space with its fresh white tone,
and the finely prepared strips and beveled edges give it a surprisingly soft touch for wood.

It is light yet durable, and over time it gently mellows to a honeyed amber color—
another pleasure to look forward to.

Among crafts made from natural materials, a lidded square basket like this is surprisingly rare.
Beyond practicality, simply leaving it out lends a quiet accent to the space—
the basket’s gentle character is part of its charm.

Please check the dimensions carefully and choose the size that suits you.

__Itaya Maple Craft Continuing in Akita Prefecture__

In central Akita Prefecture, people have been making crafts from Itaya maple for about 200 years,
as a side job during the farming off-season.

Itaya maple, a type of maple tree, grows abundantly in Hokkaido and Akita,
providing easy access to the material.

At its peak, nearly 40 households in Akita were engaged in this craft,
most of them making mi — winnowing baskets used by farmers.

Before the autumn snow begins to fall, the trees are harvested,
and the remaining logs are stored under the snow
to preserve their distinctive white color.

The process starts by roughly splitting the logs into eight pieces.
Although machines are used in some parts,
most of the splitting and shaving into thin strips is done by hand,
with each strip made as thin as about one millimeter.

Today, very few people still go into the mountains to fell these trees,
and crafts made from Itaya maple have become increasingly rare and precious.

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.