Wooden Tea caddy Sokawa chirashi - L

This natural wood tea caddy is wrapped internally and externally with bark from wild cherry trees, an example of a Japanese art form known as kabazaiku. This craft originates in Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture, with a history dating back 200 years. The wood for these tea caddies is harvested in August or September each year from local cherry trees which are at least 70 years old, and once peeled the bark is then dried for a further two years to ensure durability. The finish of each tea caddy has a marbled effect owing to the natural grain of the wood. Cherry bark possesses antibacterial and moisture control properties whilst also allowing for ventilation, making it the ideal material for keeping tea fresh. The caddy lid has also been specially designed to fit snugly, ensuring the tea leaves within are unharmed by external elements.

Tōhoku

Tōhoku consists of six prefectures located in the north-east of Honshu island. This region is known for its hot spring (onsen) resorts, colourful festivals, remote sacred mountains and harsh winters. In 2011, the devastating earthquake and tsunami hit the region hard; however, the massive efforts in reconstruction are proof of the people’s resilience. Urushi (lacquer) ware, ironware and the crafting of kokeshi dolls make up but a few of the local industries in this lesser-visited region of Japan.