For over 400 years, the Shibata family has been at the heart of Hakata Bentwood, preserving this traditional Japanese woodworking craft. Tamaki Shibata, the 18th-generation artisan, took over the family business after her father’s sudden passing, becoming the first female craftsperson in its long history.

Raised in a workshop filled with the scent of cedar and cypress, Tamaki dedicated herself to keeping the tradition alive despite financial struggles and personal hardships. She modernizes bentwood designs while preserving the meticulous handcrafting techniques passed down for centuries. Her work has been exhibited in Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond, proving that traditional craftsmanship can adapt to modern lifestyles.

Her eldest son, Shogo, now joins her in the workshop, preparing to carry the legacy forward. Together, they are ensuring that Hakata Bentwood continues to flourish, bridging the past and future while honoring Japan’s deep-rooted cultural heritage.

Before First Use:

To remove the natural tannins in the cedar, pour hot water (about 80°C/175°F) into both the lid and the base, and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Then, discard the water and let the box dry completely before use.
⚠️ Leaving hot water in for too long may cause stains. Be careful when handling hot water to avoid burns.

Usage & Care Instructions:

• After use, wash with lukewarm water. Wipe moisture with a cloth and dry thoroughly.
• For oily stains, use diluted mild detergent. Avoid microwaves, dishwashers, prolonged soaking, bleach, baking soda, and metal scrubbers as they may damage the product and cause mold.
• Over time, the box may darken due to a reaction between rice starch and cedar tannins, but this is normal and won't affect usage.
• Please understand that since each piece is handcrafted by artisans, there may be slight variations.