KUMAZAKI-san / Hida Shunkei Lacquering
Hida Shunkei is the name of a particular type of lacquerware, the production of which began in the 17th Century. “Shunkei” is a lacquering technique. The main feature of it is the clear lacquer which shows the natural beauty of the wood grain. Clear lacquer is applied repeatedly to enhance the wood grain, but the finished result is determined by the actual lacquer mixture.
Nobuyuki Kumazaki-san, Hida Shinkei lacquerer, a designated craftsperson accredited by the Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries in 1994, will tell you about what he creates, what is special about his products, and why he has been engaged in creating crafts including his family history.
So by visiting and meeting Kuimazaki-san and listening to his story, you will have deeper understandings on how the Japanese craftsmanship has been blended in our tradition, culture and our daily life.
In this hands-on experience plan, you can also paint your own small pieces of wood for cell phone straps or ochoko (small sake cups). After painting, Kumazaki-san will finish with Shunkei lacquer and send it to your home 2 to 3 months later.