Wisdom for life nurtured in mountainous regions

Nagano's crafts, such as Kiso lacquerware, Matsumoto furniture, and Shinshu Tsumugi silk, are packed with the rich forest resources and wisdom that enrich life in this mountainous region.

  • Textiles and dyeing

    Shinshu Tsumugi

    A simple and durable silk fabric woven using silk thread, dupioni thread, raw silk, etc., dyed with natural dyes.

  • lacquerware

    Kiso lacquerware

    The area is blessed with high-quality timber such as cypress and lacquer, and is home to durable techniques such as "honkataji" and "tsuishu."

  • Buddhist altars and accessories

    Iiyama Buddhist Altar

    This Buddhist altar is heavy and sturdy, made using the hijikigumi technique used by shrine carpenters.

  • Woodwork/Bamboowork

    Matsumoto Furniture

    A fusion of Japanese furniture techniques and Western furniture design. Made from Mizumezakura cherry wood, the more you use it, the more lustrous it becomes.

  • Japanese paper/paper crafts

    Uchiyama Paper

    Shoji paper is made from kozo (paper mulberry) that has been exposed to snow, and is strong, breathable, and light-transmitting.

  • Woodwork/Bamboowork

    Nagiso lathed woodwork

    Wooden products such as trays and bowls are made on a lathe, making use of the grain of zelkova and horse chestnut.

  • Metalwork

    Shinshu Cutlery

    Blacksmithing techniques originated from the production of sickles and other agricultural tools, and are now used to make strong, sharp blades.