If you have ever seen Japanese sumo wrestling, you may recall the image of a sumo wrestler throwing salt into the ring.

This “SUMŌ Salt Basket” is the basket used by sumo wrestlers to hold the salt they scatter onto the ring.

In ancient times, sumo was said to have been performed as a ritual to foretell the harvest of the year.

Its history is believed to date back over 1,500 years, and the act of throwing salt carries both a spiritual meaning—to purify the sacred ring before the match—and a practical one, to disinfect the wrestlers’ small wounds.

This bamboo basket plays a small yet enduring role in that long-standing cultural tradition.

Our shop commissions this basket from the very craftsman who makes the salt baskets currently used in professional sumo.

Although we cannot say for certain that his baskets are used in every sumo ring across Japan, it is true that many do employ his work.

It is not entirely clear when this form originated, why bamboo became the primary material, or why rattan began to be used for the rim.

Rattan does not grow naturally in Japan; the material used in bamboo crafts today is almost entirely imported from Indonesia.

Perhaps in the past, the basket was made entirely of bamboo, or the rim might have been finished using some other material instead of rattan.

The craftsman who now makes these salt baskets says that when he inherited the technique from his mentor, the basket already had this same form, and that the precise origins of its design remain unknown.

Salt is thrown by sumo wrestlers in the top division, and it is said that about 100lb of salt are used in a single day’s bouts—around 1,400lb over the course of a tournament.

The salt basket, placed at the edge of the ring, may sometimes be struck by a wrestler’s body during a match.

It is built so solidly that it will not yield to even the slightest impact.

Because of its strength, it is also suitable for storing heavier items such as jars of jam or canned drinks.

It is sturdy enough to withstand a bit of rough handling by children.

It is also ideal for keeping root vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes.
You can line the basket with paper if you’re concerned about dirt or sand.

It can also be used as a tool basket.

You can store puzzles, card games, or board games, as well as toys.
It is just the right size for children to carry around.

The square-type baskets also look lovely when arranged together on the same shelf.

In this photo, the basket on the left is relatively new, retaining a hint of its original green tone,
while the one on the right has changed in color after five to six years of use.

Depending on your environment, the color of madake bamboo gradually changes
from green to yellow as it is exposed to sunlight or indoor lighting over time.

While it was originally designed for its traditional purpose,
the craftsman hopes that each person will enjoy using it in their own way.

Please watch the video below to see how the salt basket is made.

As a storage basket, it can be enjoyed in many places—
in the kitchen, living room, or bedroom.

Please choose the type that suits your preference.

Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki

In Ibaraki Prefecture,
a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.

Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life,
while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.

Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people
—we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.

These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything.
From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts,
they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.

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.