This is a deep-style zaru (strainer basket) made from madake bamboo.
It comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—to suit different needs.
Commonly used in the kitchen, this type of zaru plays many roles in everyday cooking.
It’s perfect for rinsing vegetables, draining boiled foods or noodles, and more—offering simple, reliable support for your daily prep.
This artisan has worked with bamboo since his youth, and even now—well into his 90s—he continues to dedicate himself
From oversized commercial strainers to small baskets for everyday home use, he has created just about every kind of bamboo piece used across Ibaraki and the surrounding Kanto region, including the Tokyo area.
It’s no exaggeration to say he’s something of a bamboo-making superhero.
It is woven in a dense gozame-ami (mat-style weave) using fine bamboo strips. Both the outer green-toned skin and the pale inner surface of the madake bamboo are carefully shaved into thin splints and incorporated into the basket.All sizes are made using slender bamboo strips, about 2 mm wide, with tightly packed weaving throughout.By using not only the outer skin but also the inner part of the bamboo, the material can be used efficiently with little waste. Over time, the color of each surface matures differently—the darker tones of the skin and the paler inner bamboo create a natural contrast that becomes even richer with age.The base is woven in ajiro-ami—a tightly woven style. This dense weave ensures that vegetables, noodles, or other small items won’t slip through, making it a reliable piece to use in the kitchen.Both the outer skin and inner surface of the bamboo are used in the base as well, adding visual depth and making full use of the material.Underside of the base.This is the rim. First, a strip of inner bamboo is wrapped around the edge. Then, another strip—this time using the outer skin—is wrapped in the opposite direction, creating a double-layered finish.Over time, the rim of a zaru tends to show wear first. By wrapping it twice like this, the structure gains extra strength compared to a single wrap—making it more durable for long-term use.The rim features a striking contrast between the natural pale tone of the inner bamboo and the greenish hue of the outer skin.Let’s take a closer look at each size. This one is the smallest—Small size.Easy to handle around the kitchen, this size is ideal for rinsing small vegetables or fruits. It also works well for draining 100–200 grams of noodles.This is the Medium size.This size is also great for rinsing vegetables or fruits, and for draining about 200–400 grams of noodles.This is the Large size.Perfect for rinsing a generous amount of vegetables, draining boiled greens, or handling about 400–600 grams of noodles.At times, you may notice markings that look like scorch marks, as shown in the photo. These appear during the final finishing process, where a flame (such as a burner) is used to remove small splinters. Please note that this is not a defect, but a part of the normal finishing technique.This basket can also be used for rinsing rice. However, due to the natural material and the angles of the bamboo strips, there may be slight gaps in the weave in some areas, which can occasionally allow a few grains to slip through. We appreciate your understanding.This is the Medium-size, shown here being used to drain noodles. We’re often asked about this, but bamboo baskets like this one can safely handle boiling water.The shape also makes it easy to use for prepping vegetables.Also great for seasonal tasks like preparing ume plums. The Large size can hold about 2 kilograms of fresh green ume, as shown here.
After draining noodles, you can rinse them under running water or place the entire basket into a bowl of ice water to cool them down. Its sturdy construction lets you use it with confidence.
In the photo above, the three sizes are shown nested together. However, since each basket is handmade, there may be slight variations in size.
If you order different sizes (for example, one Medium and one Large), we may not be able to nest them together for shipping. Thank you for your understanding.
If you’re unsure about which size to choose, we usually recommend going one size up.
These baskets are often used around the sink for rinsing noodles or vegetables. Since these foods can become quite heavy when holding water, filling the basket to its full capacity may cause it to wear out more quickly.
If your storage space allows, choosing a slightly larger size will give you more flexibility—and help your basket last longer.
We invite you to compare the different sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs.
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.
This is a deep-style zaru (strainer basket) made from madake bamboo.
It comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—to suit different needs.
Commonly used in the kitchen, this type of zaru plays many roles in everyday cooking.
It’s perfect for rinsing vegetables, draining boiled foods or noodles, and more—offering simple, reliable support for your daily prep.
This artisan has worked with bamboo since his youth, and even now—well into his 90s—he continues to dedicate himself
From oversized commercial strainers to small baskets for everyday home use, he has created just about every kind of bamboo piece used across Ibaraki and the surrounding Kanto region, including the Tokyo area.
It’s no exaggeration to say he’s something of a bamboo-making superhero.
It is woven in a dense gozame-ami (mat-style weave) using fine bamboo strips. Both the outer green-toned skin and the pale inner surface of the madake bamboo are carefully shaved into thin splints and incorporated into the basket.All sizes are made using slender bamboo strips, about 2 mm wide, with tightly packed weaving throughout.By using not only the outer skin but also the inner part of the bamboo, the material can be used efficiently with little waste. Over time, the color of each surface matures differently—the darker tones of the skin and the paler inner bamboo create a natural contrast that becomes even richer with age.The base is woven in ajiro-ami—a tightly woven style. This dense weave ensures that vegetables, noodles, or other small items won’t slip through, making it a reliable piece to use in the kitchen.Both the outer skin and inner surface of the bamboo are used in the base as well, adding visual depth and making full use of the material.Underside of the base.This is the rim. First, a strip of inner bamboo is wrapped around the edge. Then, another strip—this time using the outer skin—is wrapped in the opposite direction, creating a double-layered finish.Over time, the rim of a zaru tends to show wear first. By wrapping it twice like this, the structure gains extra strength compared to a single wrap—making it more durable for long-term use.The rim features a striking contrast between the natural pale tone of the inner bamboo and the greenish hue of the outer skin.Let’s take a closer look at each size. This one is the smallest—Small size.Easy to handle around the kitchen, this size is ideal for rinsing small vegetables or fruits. It also works well for draining 100–200 grams of noodles.This is the Medium size.This size is also great for rinsing vegetables or fruits, and for draining about 200–400 grams of noodles.This is the Large size.Perfect for rinsing a generous amount of vegetables, draining boiled greens, or handling about 400–600 grams of noodles.At times, you may notice markings that look like scorch marks, as shown in the photo. These appear during the final finishing process, where a flame (such as a burner) is used to remove small splinters. Please note that this is not a defect, but a part of the normal finishing technique.This basket can also be used for rinsing rice. However, due to the natural material and the angles of the bamboo strips, there may be slight gaps in the weave in some areas, which can occasionally allow a few grains to slip through. We appreciate your understanding.This is the Medium-size, shown here being used to drain noodles. We’re often asked about this, but bamboo baskets like this one can safely handle boiling water.The shape also makes it easy to use for prepping vegetables.Also great for seasonal tasks like preparing ume plums. The Large size can hold about 2 kilograms of fresh green ume, as shown here.
After draining noodles, you can rinse them under running water or place the entire basket into a bowl of ice water to cool them down. Its sturdy construction lets you use it with confidence.
In the photo above, the three sizes are shown nested together. However, since each basket is handmade, there may be slight variations in size.
If you order different sizes (for example, one Medium and one Large), we may not be able to nest them together for shipping. Thank you for your understanding.
If you’re unsure about which size to choose, we usually recommend going one size up.
These baskets are often used around the sink for rinsing noodles or vegetables. Since these foods can become quite heavy when holding water, filling the basket to its full capacity may cause it to wear out more quickly.
If your storage space allows, choosing a slightly larger size will give you more flexibility—and help your basket last longer.
We invite you to compare the different sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs.
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.
This is a deep-style zaru (strainer basket) made from madake bamboo.
It comes in three sizes—small, medium, and large—to suit different needs.
Commonly used in the kitchen, this type of zaru plays many roles in everyday cooking.
It’s perfect for rinsing vegetables, draining boiled foods or noodles, and more—offering simple, reliable support for your daily prep.
This artisan has worked with bamboo since his youth, and even now—well into his 90s—he continues to dedicate himself
From oversized commercial strainers to small baskets for everyday home use, he has created just about every kind of bamboo piece used across Ibaraki and the surrounding Kanto region, including the Tokyo area.
It’s no exaggeration to say he’s something of a bamboo-making superhero.
It is woven in a dense gozame-ami (mat-style weave) using fine bamboo strips. Both the outer green-toned skin and the pale inner surface of the madake bamboo are carefully shaved into thin splints and incorporated into the basket.All sizes are made using slender bamboo strips, about 2 mm wide, with tightly packed weaving throughout.By using not only the outer skin but also the inner part of the bamboo, the material can be used efficiently with little waste. Over time, the color of each surface matures differently—the darker tones of the skin and the paler inner bamboo create a natural contrast that becomes even richer with age.The base is woven in ajiro-ami—a tightly woven style. This dense weave ensures that vegetables, noodles, or other small items won’t slip through, making it a reliable piece to use in the kitchen.Both the outer skin and inner surface of the bamboo are used in the base as well, adding visual depth and making full use of the material.Underside of the base.This is the rim. First, a strip of inner bamboo is wrapped around the edge. Then, another strip—this time using the outer skin—is wrapped in the opposite direction, creating a double-layered finish.Over time, the rim of a zaru tends to show wear first. By wrapping it twice like this, the structure gains extra strength compared to a single wrap—making it more durable for long-term use.The rim features a striking contrast between the natural pale tone of the inner bamboo and the greenish hue of the outer skin.Let’s take a closer look at each size. This one is the smallest—Small size.Easy to handle around the kitchen, this size is ideal for rinsing small vegetables or fruits. It also works well for draining 100–200 grams of noodles.This is the Medium size.This size is also great for rinsing vegetables or fruits, and for draining about 200–400 grams of noodles.This is the Large size.Perfect for rinsing a generous amount of vegetables, draining boiled greens, or handling about 400–600 grams of noodles.At times, you may notice markings that look like scorch marks, as shown in the photo. These appear during the final finishing process, where a flame (such as a burner) is used to remove small splinters. Please note that this is not a defect, but a part of the normal finishing technique.This basket can also be used for rinsing rice. However, due to the natural material and the angles of the bamboo strips, there may be slight gaps in the weave in some areas, which can occasionally allow a few grains to slip through. We appreciate your understanding.This is the Medium-size, shown here being used to drain noodles. We’re often asked about this, but bamboo baskets like this one can safely handle boiling water.The shape also makes it easy to use for prepping vegetables.Also great for seasonal tasks like preparing ume plums. The Large size can hold about 2 kilograms of fresh green ume, as shown here.
After draining noodles, you can rinse them under running water or place the entire basket into a bowl of ice water to cool them down. Its sturdy construction lets you use it with confidence.
In the photo above, the three sizes are shown nested together. However, since each basket is handmade, there may be slight variations in size.
If you order different sizes (for example, one Medium and one Large), we may not be able to nest them together for shipping. Thank you for your understanding.
If you’re unsure about which size to choose, we usually recommend going one size up.
These baskets are often used around the sink for rinsing noodles or vegetables. Since these foods can become quite heavy when holding water, filling the basket to its full capacity may cause it to wear out more quickly.
If your storage space allows, choosing a slightly larger size will give you more flexibility—and help your basket last longer.
We invite you to compare the different sizes and choose the one that best suits your needs.
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.
