Bamboo Bag Atelier KISETSU: a modern take on a traditional Kyoto craft
Atelier KISETSU is a bamboo craft studio in Kyoto, Japan, owned and operated by a former corporate worker who chose to pursue a career in traditional crafts.
Instead of being just another cog in a corporate machine, Hideaki Hosokawa decided to become a master of his craft and create handmade bamboo products from start to finish. He encountered many difficulties in starting his own business (mainly due to a lack of experience and resources) but was inspired by the reactions of his customers to the products he made. He believes that the true delight of both makers and customers comes from sharing the same values.
Hosokawa-san reveals that splitting bamboo into thin strips is an art form that requires a lot of time, practice and patience. It's a process that takes years to learn, as one must understand the unique qualities of bamboo and be dedicated to mastering this craft - a task that surely takes a great deal of commitment!
Bamboo basketry weaving has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. It was originally developed as a way to carry items but has evolved into a form of art and craftsmanship over time, becoming an intimate part of flower arrangement and tea ceremony heritage.
Atelier KISETSU was opened in 2011 to re-introduce traditional bamboo craft into modern lifestyle with 8 core products which are made to order with basketry weaving techniques using locally sourced materials (Kyoto-grown bamboo, silk fabric decorated with yuzen dyeing technique, handwoven sanadahimo cords, chains and metal fittings from a Kansai-based company and Japan-produced denim textile).
KISETSU's bags are made with a great deal of dedication and expertise. The process involves delicately cutting bamboo into fine strips with smooth edges, dyeing and weaving them into intricate patterns. The bags are then coated with urushi lacquer and polished with wax to give them a beautiful and timeless sheen. With time, bamboo develops a special character and patina, making each product unique and special.
Image courtesy of Atelier KISETSU
Image courtesy of Atelier KISETSU
Image courtesy of Atelier KISETSU
Image courtesy of Atelier KISETSU
Here’s how you can visit the atelier:
Book your experience via the Kyoto Artisans Concierge and bring your own interpreter.
Book your Custom Kyoto Design Tour with me for a full-day tailor-made immersion into the world of Kyoto design & aesthetics and let me weave the visit into your itinerary.
Shop order-made bamboo bags here →
