On this page, we introduce two types of baskets made from Itaya maple.
The left photo shows the bread basket, and the right shows the cutlery basket.

Although the names and shapes differ, the construction is roughly the same.

You may find yourself tempted to put in many items,
but when carrying heavy metal cutlery, it is best to hold the basket with both hands.
This way, the rim is not strained and the basket will last longer.

Its texture brings to mind the feeling of Scandinavian basketry.
In colder regions, it is common to see baskets made by splitting logs in this way.

The smooth, refreshing color blends naturally into both Japanese and Western-style rooms.

Watching the color gently deepen with age is also one of the pleasures.
Please choose the type you prefer.

__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.