Mino craftsmanship and Hida skills

Gifu is home to Japan's number one ceramics producer, Mino ware, Mino washi paper nurtured by clear streams, and Hida woodworking. Gifu is home to artisans who are well versed in the natural materials of earth, water, and wood.

  • Traditional Crafts

    Hida Shunkei

    Shunkei lacquerware allows the beautiful grain of the wood to show through, and is characterized by its translucent amber color.

  • Woodwork/Bamboowork

    Ichii Ittobori

    This wood carving is made from Hida's famous yew tree, and is not painted, but is finished with sharp chisel marks.

  • Ceramics

    Mino ware

    Japan's largest producer of ceramics, with a wide variety of styles including Shino, Oribe, Kiseto, and Setoguro.

  • Japanese paper/paper crafts

    Mino washi paper

    Thin, strong, and beautifully even, Honminoshi paper is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

  • Traditional Crafts

    Gifu Lantern

    These Bon lanterns feature delicate and elegant designs and are made from extremely thin Mino washi paper and thin bamboo strips.