“Kakukago” Basket with Legs / Madake Bamboo / Ibaraki-JPN 810209 茨城県/真竹 角かご（御用かご）足つき 中・大 2サイズ ルイ版
“Kakukago” Basket with Legs / Madake Bamboo / Ibaraki-JPN 810209 茨城県/真竹 角かご（御用かご）足つき 中・大 2サイズ ルイ版
This is a legged rectangular basket called Kakukago, made from green madake bamboo. It comes in two sizes—medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This legged kakukago has also been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.When we asked this craftsman to make the handled version, we also requested a simpler, legged version without a handle at the same time. These two baskets are the result.
The handled baskets, which can be carried indoors or outdoors, are wonderful, but we also wanted a basket that could simply stay in one place and be used at home.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thinner, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width provide the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The thick rim, the vertical reinforcing bamboo strips,and the fine bamboo strips woven in a regular gozame-ami (mat-style) pattern—these are the defining features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.On the underside, several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner. This specification also differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although the baskets made by this craftsman may show a certain roughness, in terms of strength and practicality, they are reliable and trustworthy tools that can be used with confidence.
Let us introduce each size in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.Because it is rectangular, it fits neatly into corners or against walls without wasting space, and can hold plenty of items. It also works well as a basket for slippers or other footwear.Next is the large size.Compared with the medium size, it is considerably larger and can hold a generous amount.It is ideal for storing vegetables and fruits that do not require refrigeration, as well as bottles, cans, or other pantry items.It can also be used as a tool basket or a newspaper holder,and is sturdy enough to store root vegetables or heavy condiments.
Thanks to its legs, the basket can be placed directly on the floor without worrying too much about shelf height or clearance. Even when placed on the floor, the basket itself is raised slightly, allowing air to circulate underneath—adding a sense of reassurance.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
With its solid, rectangular structure, this basket is suitable for both home and professional use. Please choose the size that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
This is a legged rectangular basket called Kakukago, made from green madake bamboo. It comes in two sizes—medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This legged kakukago has also been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.When we asked this craftsman to make the handled version, we also requested a simpler, legged version without a handle at the same time. These two baskets are the result.
The handled baskets, which can be carried indoors or outdoors, are wonderful, but we also wanted a basket that could simply stay in one place and be used at home.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thinner, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width provide the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The thick rim, the vertical reinforcing bamboo strips,and the fine bamboo strips woven in a regular gozame-ami (mat-style) pattern—these are the defining features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.On the underside, several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner. This specification also differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although the baskets made by this craftsman may show a certain roughness, in terms of strength and practicality, they are reliable and trustworthy tools that can be used with confidence.
Let us introduce each size in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.Because it is rectangular, it fits neatly into corners or against walls without wasting space, and can hold plenty of items. It also works well as a basket for slippers or other footwear.Next is the large size.Compared with the medium size, it is considerably larger and can hold a generous amount.It is ideal for storing vegetables and fruits that do not require refrigeration, as well as bottles, cans, or other pantry items.It can also be used as a tool basket or a newspaper holder,and is sturdy enough to store root vegetables or heavy condiments.
Thanks to its legs, the basket can be placed directly on the floor without worrying too much about shelf height or clearance. Even when placed on the floor, the basket itself is raised slightly, allowing air to circulate underneath—adding a sense of reassurance.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
With its solid, rectangular structure, this basket is suitable for both home and professional use. Please choose the size that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
This is a legged rectangular basket called Kakukago, made from green madake bamboo. It comes in two sizes—medium and large.
Making baskets like this kakukago requires unique techniques, such as shaving thick bamboo and using fire to bend it, to transform long, straight bamboo into a square form. Compared to the peak period of kakukago production, the number of craftsmen who possess these skills has dramatically decreased— only a few remain today.
This legged kakukago has also been recreated as a revival piece. There was a time when baskets of this form were widely made on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture, but unfortunately, they are no longer produced there.
Several old baskets remained in our shop, so we asked a craftsman in Ibaraki to recreate them.
In the photo, the basket on the left is from Sado, and the one on the right was recreated by the craftsman in Ibaraki.When we asked this craftsman to make the handled version, we also requested a simpler, legged version without a handle at the same time. These two baskets are the result.
The handled baskets, which can be carried indoors or outdoors, are wonderful, but we also wanted a basket that could simply stay in one place and be used at home.
One of the strengths of green madake bamboo work is that, unlike crafts made from thinner, reed-like bamboo, its thickness and width provide the strength to withstand daily transport and heavy use.
The thick rim, the vertical reinforcing bamboo strips,and the fine bamboo strips woven in a regular gozame-ami (mat-style) pattern—these are the defining features of a kakukago.The unique feature of this craftsman’s kakukago lies in the rim, where the outer skin of the bamboo remains visible even on the inside. The original Sado-made baskets were constructed so that the pale inner surface was visible, but this method, showing the outer skin, reflects the individuality of this particular craftsman, who has long worked in this style.The broad vertical bamboo strips are shaved thin where they are bent, softened over a flame, and then folded inward.The bottom is woven in the ikada-zoko-ami pattern, a technique often used when making durable baskets.On the underside, several reinforcing bamboo strips run through the bottom, and small legs are inserted at each corner. This specification also differs slightly from the Sado-made version.While the Sado baskets used thin, round bamboo rods, the recreated version uses split, thicker bamboo strips, which help prevent cracking caused by drying.At the corners and bending points, you may notice marks made with a black marker—these serve as bending guides and are part of the standard process.In addition, some peeling of the bamboo surface,or dark discoloration from residual soil on the bark, may be seen, but these are natural and do not affect use.
Although the baskets made by this craftsman may show a certain roughness, in terms of strength and practicality, they are reliable and trustworthy tools that can be used with confidence.
Let us introduce each size in order.
This is the medium size.It is not too large, making it easy to handle in everyday use.Because it is rectangular, it fits neatly into corners or against walls without wasting space, and can hold plenty of items. It also works well as a basket for slippers or other footwear.Next is the large size.Compared with the medium size, it is considerably larger and can hold a generous amount.It is ideal for storing vegetables and fruits that do not require refrigeration, as well as bottles, cans, or other pantry items.It can also be used as a tool basket or a newspaper holder,and is sturdy enough to store root vegetables or heavy condiments.
Thanks to its legs, the basket can be placed directly on the floor without worrying too much about shelf height or clearance. Even when placed on the floor, the basket itself is raised slightly, allowing air to circulate underneath—adding a sense of reassurance.
When placing the basket directly on flooring, please note that the bamboo feet may leave marks or scratches. We recommend placing a piece of cloth or paper underneath, or attaching small cushions to the feet for protection.
With its solid, rectangular structure, this basket is suitable for both home and professional use. Please choose the size that best suits your needs—medium or large.
Bamboo Artisans of Ibaraki
In Ibaraki Prefecture, a small number of seasoned bamboo artisans continue to work actively while also mentoring the next generation.
Some inherited their craft from parents at a time when bamboo tools were simply part of everyday life, while others honed their skills working in bamboo workshops in Tokyo.
Though they still embody the old-school spirit of craftsmanship, they are all warm-hearted and generous people —we are truly grateful for their continued support of our work.
These skilled artisans are typically able to make just about anything. From rustic everyday wares to fine bamboo crafts, they carry with them a wide range of techniques passed down through generations.
Please note: This item ships from Japan. As the buyer, you are responsible for any import duties, customs fees, or local taxes that may be charged in your country. These costs are not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please check with your local customs authority if you are unsure about any potential charges before placing your order.
