The bark that naturally covers the surface of the vine is left intact, giving the basket a warm and rustic character. Its charm lies in the unrefined, organic beauty of the material just as it is found in nature.
In Nagano, there are also baskets made from gray Akebi vine, known as Muki Akebi, in which the bark is removed before weaving.
On this page, we introduce two sizes: Small and Medium.
The basket is woven in a traditional pattern known locally as Nami-ami, using pairs of vertical ribs to create a dense, orderly weave.Carefully selected slender Akebi vines are used whole, without splitting, and woven as they are.Because the vines are consistently fine and even, the basket has a rustic texture with a subtle, refined beauty.Here is the rim of the basket. It’s firm and tightly finished.The rim is finished in a style called Yahazu-maki, named after the fletching on an arrow. It is a strong method of binding the rim by wrapping the vine from both sides and securing it inward.The rim and handle are connected by two interlinked rings, like a chain. This allows the handles to open wide or fold down flat.Over time, the joint between the rim and handle is the part most likely to need repair. This ring-style connection lets the handle move more freely, placing less stress on the rim and joints—helping the basket last longer.The handle is formed by wrapping an Akebi vine around a thicker Akebi core, creating a solid grip.The handles can open outward to this extent, or fold inward neatly. This makes it easy to insert or remove items. As its name Oval Tote Basket suggests, the basket has a softly oval shape.The same Nami-ami continues at the bottom, creating a strong and stable base.This is the Small size.Shown here being held in the hand.Even in the Small size, the handles are long enough to slip over your arm.It has enough space to carry your essentials—like your wallet, keys, pouch, and a bottle.This is the Medium size.It’s just the right size to rest comfortably on your lap.Along with your valuables, there’s room for a lunch box or a flask, and even a light wrap like a stole.
You might also enjoy placing a handkerchief-sized cloth over the top, or using a fabric pouch or drawstring bag inside the basket.
The Akebi vines retain their natural texture and coloring, just as they were harvested wild from the mountains.
Its soft gradation of earthy tones and calm coloring give the basket a quiet sense of character. You could look at it endlessly and still find peace and warmth in its presence.
Because it’s woven entirely from whole, unsplit Akebi vines, this tote lets you enjoy the full texture of the material. It pairs beautifully with casual styles like denim.
Whether for work or personal use, it’s perfect for everyday outings. Over time, the surface will develop a gentle sheen as it’s naturally coated by the oils from your hands—one of the joys of using it daily. We believe this is a basket you’ll enjoy for five, ten, or even more years to come.
Please choose the size that best suits your needs.
_Akebi Vine Basketry from Northern Nagano_
In Nagano, since the early Edo period, people have crafted baskets, toys, and other daily tools as winter work during the region’s long, snow-filled months.
There are two types of Akebi vine used in basketry: one with its natural bark intact—a warm brown color— and another called Muki Akebi, a grayish vine that has been peeled after fermentation.
While Akebi vine craft is also found in parts of Tohoku such as Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata, Muki Akebi basketry is a tradition that continues only in this region.
Before weaving begins, the vines are soaked in hot spring water for about a week, then fermented in river water for around a month before the bark is carefully removed.
It is said that in the past, all Akebi baskets in northern Nagano were made exclusively from Muki Akebi.
This material requires great time and effort before it can even be woven, but the baskets that emerge from it carry a quiet depth—something only this land can produce.
Both Akebi and Muki Akebi vines are carefully selected for quality, and skilled hands continue to craft them into a wide variety of beautiful forms.
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 tote basket handwoven from Akebi vine.
The bark that naturally covers the surface of the vine is left intact, giving the basket a warm and rustic character. Its charm lies in the unrefined, organic beauty of the material just as it is found in nature.
In Nagano, there are also baskets made from gray Akebi vine, known as Muki Akebi, in which the bark is removed before weaving.
On this page, we introduce two sizes: Small and Medium.
The basket is woven in a traditional pattern known locally as Nami-ami, using pairs of vertical ribs to create a dense, orderly weave.Carefully selected slender Akebi vines are used whole, without splitting, and woven as they are.Because the vines are consistently fine and even, the basket has a rustic texture with a subtle, refined beauty.Here is the rim of the basket. It’s firm and tightly finished.The rim is finished in a style called Yahazu-maki, named after the fletching on an arrow. It is a strong method of binding the rim by wrapping the vine from both sides and securing it inward.The rim and handle are connected by two interlinked rings, like a chain. This allows the handles to open wide or fold down flat.Over time, the joint between the rim and handle is the part most likely to need repair. This ring-style connection lets the handle move more freely, placing less stress on the rim and joints—helping the basket last longer.The handle is formed by wrapping an Akebi vine around a thicker Akebi core, creating a solid grip.The handles can open outward to this extent, or fold inward neatly. This makes it easy to insert or remove items. As its name Oval Tote Basket suggests, the basket has a softly oval shape.The same Nami-ami continues at the bottom, creating a strong and stable base.This is the Small size.Shown here being held in the hand.Even in the Small size, the handles are long enough to slip over your arm.It has enough space to carry your essentials—like your wallet, keys, pouch, and a bottle.This is the Medium size.It’s just the right size to rest comfortably on your lap.Along with your valuables, there’s room for a lunch box or a flask, and even a light wrap like a stole.
You might also enjoy placing a handkerchief-sized cloth over the top, or using a fabric pouch or drawstring bag inside the basket.
The Akebi vines retain their natural texture and coloring, just as they were harvested wild from the mountains.
Its soft gradation of earthy tones and calm coloring give the basket a quiet sense of character. You could look at it endlessly and still find peace and warmth in its presence.
Because it’s woven entirely from whole, unsplit Akebi vines, this tote lets you enjoy the full texture of the material. It pairs beautifully with casual styles like denim.
Whether for work or personal use, it’s perfect for everyday outings. Over time, the surface will develop a gentle sheen as it’s naturally coated by the oils from your hands—one of the joys of using it daily. We believe this is a basket you’ll enjoy for five, ten, or even more years to come.
Please choose the size that best suits your needs.
_Akebi Vine Basketry from Northern Nagano_
In Nagano, since the early Edo period, people have crafted baskets, toys, and other daily tools as winter work during the region’s long, snow-filled months.
There are two types of Akebi vine used in basketry: one with its natural bark intact—a warm brown color— and another called Muki Akebi, a grayish vine that has been peeled after fermentation.
While Akebi vine craft is also found in parts of Tohoku such as Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata, Muki Akebi basketry is a tradition that continues only in this region.
Before weaving begins, the vines are soaked in hot spring water for about a week, then fermented in river water for around a month before the bark is carefully removed.
It is said that in the past, all Akebi baskets in northern Nagano were made exclusively from Muki Akebi.
This material requires great time and effort before it can even be woven, but the baskets that emerge from it carry a quiet depth—something only this land can produce.
Both Akebi and Muki Akebi vines are carefully selected for quality, and skilled hands continue to craft them into a wide variety of beautiful forms.
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 tote basket handwoven from Akebi vine.
The bark that naturally covers the surface of the vine is left intact, giving the basket a warm and rustic character. Its charm lies in the unrefined, organic beauty of the material just as it is found in nature.
In Nagano, there are also baskets made from gray Akebi vine, known as Muki Akebi, in which the bark is removed before weaving.
On this page, we introduce two sizes: Small and Medium.
The basket is woven in a traditional pattern known locally as Nami-ami, using pairs of vertical ribs to create a dense, orderly weave.Carefully selected slender Akebi vines are used whole, without splitting, and woven as they are.Because the vines are consistently fine and even, the basket has a rustic texture with a subtle, refined beauty.Here is the rim of the basket. It’s firm and tightly finished.The rim is finished in a style called Yahazu-maki, named after the fletching on an arrow. It is a strong method of binding the rim by wrapping the vine from both sides and securing it inward.The rim and handle are connected by two interlinked rings, like a chain. This allows the handles to open wide or fold down flat.Over time, the joint between the rim and handle is the part most likely to need repair. This ring-style connection lets the handle move more freely, placing less stress on the rim and joints—helping the basket last longer.The handle is formed by wrapping an Akebi vine around a thicker Akebi core, creating a solid grip.The handles can open outward to this extent, or fold inward neatly. This makes it easy to insert or remove items. As its name Oval Tote Basket suggests, the basket has a softly oval shape.The same Nami-ami continues at the bottom, creating a strong and stable base.This is the Small size.Shown here being held in the hand.Even in the Small size, the handles are long enough to slip over your arm.It has enough space to carry your essentials—like your wallet, keys, pouch, and a bottle.This is the Medium size.It’s just the right size to rest comfortably on your lap.Along with your valuables, there’s room for a lunch box or a flask, and even a light wrap like a stole.
You might also enjoy placing a handkerchief-sized cloth over the top, or using a fabric pouch or drawstring bag inside the basket.
The Akebi vines retain their natural texture and coloring, just as they were harvested wild from the mountains.
Its soft gradation of earthy tones and calm coloring give the basket a quiet sense of character. You could look at it endlessly and still find peace and warmth in its presence.
Because it’s woven entirely from whole, unsplit Akebi vines, this tote lets you enjoy the full texture of the material. It pairs beautifully with casual styles like denim.
Whether for work or personal use, it’s perfect for everyday outings. Over time, the surface will develop a gentle sheen as it’s naturally coated by the oils from your hands—one of the joys of using it daily. We believe this is a basket you’ll enjoy for five, ten, or even more years to come.
Please choose the size that best suits your needs.
_Akebi Vine Basketry from Northern Nagano_
In Nagano, since the early Edo period, people have crafted baskets, toys, and other daily tools as winter work during the region’s long, snow-filled months.
There are two types of Akebi vine used in basketry: one with its natural bark intact—a warm brown color— and another called Muki Akebi, a grayish vine that has been peeled after fermentation.
While Akebi vine craft is also found in parts of Tohoku such as Aomori, Akita, Yamagata, and Niigata, Muki Akebi basketry is a tradition that continues only in this region.
Before weaving begins, the vines are soaked in hot spring water for about a week, then fermented in river water for around a month before the bark is carefully removed.
It is said that in the past, all Akebi baskets in northern Nagano were made exclusively from Muki Akebi.
This material requires great time and effort before it can even be woven, but the baskets that emerge from it carry a quiet depth—something only this land can produce.
Both Akebi and Muki Akebi vines are carefully selected for quality, and skilled hands continue to craft them into a wide variety of beautiful forms.
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.
