This basket with lid is handcrafted from white bamboo and carbonized bamboo.

Some may be familiar with white bamboo,
which is made by sun-drying or boiling freshly cut green Madake bamboo to draw out its natural oils and color.

Carbonized bamboo is made by placing this white bamboo in a high-pressure steamer
and applying heat and pressure for about 15–20 minutes.

This process removes even more moisture and oil,
giving the bamboo a deep amber tone richer than white bamboo.

Although this treatment was originally developed to prevent mold and insects—
the natural enemies of bamboo—carbonization gives even newly made pieces a somewhat vintage appearance.

This page introduces the shallow version of the small “Kiritto” basket.

For example, you could use it to hold coffee beans and coffee-making tools,
in keeping with the color of the carbonized bamboo.
It can also be used to keep a tea set together, including a teapot, tea leaves, and teacups.

Another option is to store sewing supplies in it.

Because it has a lid, it also seems well suited for storing items you want to protect from dust while allowing air to circulate.

You could use it to store seasonal accessories such as scarves, hats, and gloves.

There is something about its shape that brings to mind a treasure chest.
It is also a good choice for storing treasured letters and keepsakes.

Because it is square, it fits neatly on shelves or in the corner of a room.

The contrast between glossy white bamboo and richly toned carbonized bamboo highlights the basket’s crisp form.

While many kakumono baskets are rectangular, this one has a less common square shape.

We hope you will enjoy it for many years as you discover different ways to use it.

Beyond Categories: A New Approach to Bamboo Craft

In the world of bamboo craft, items are often labeled—
“practical goods,” “folk art,” “souvenirs,” or “traditional crafts”—
defined by the maker or by how they are used.

But there is a couple who create bamboo work that goes beyond such categories,
pursuing a broader, more open vision of what bamboo can be.

They began as self-taught artisans,
later refining their skills at the Oita Prefectural Bamboo Craft Training Center in Beppu.
After graduating, they spent several years in workshops across Oita Prefecture,
steadily honing their craft by fulfilling order after order.

Their work is not shaped by vague ideas or trendy concepts,
but grounded in solid technique—developed through repetition and discipline.

Their baskets reflect careful consideration:
the choice of bamboo suited to each piece, the balance of color and shape,
and the usability that fits modern life.

What they create—each “bamboo thing,” in its own way—has a quiet joy.
A lightness, free from pressure, that makes it feel both thoughtful and delightfully approachable.

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.