Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, a long-established manufacturer of Nara bleached kimono, launched the "Dainipponichi" marketplace, featuring traditional craft makers from across Japan, with the vision of "revitalizing Japan's traditional crafts." The marketplace-like shop, "Dainipponichi," opened its first store on the 5th floor of Isetan Shinjuku last August, and will open at Shibuya Parco on September 20th and Hiroshima Parco on October 10th. Saifuku Co., Ltd., a Niigata-based knitwear manufacturer that has been providing OEM services for famous brands, launched its original line, "mino," in the fall/winter of 2012, and is also a popular brand at Dainipponichi. Saito Tomoyuki of Saifuku explains, "Inspired by the raincoats worn in snowy winters, we offer easy-to-use, basic knit ponchos." The two brands are "yoko," a pull-over poncho with a horizontal slit down the center of a square knit fabric, and "tate," a wrap-around poncho with a vertical slit down the center of a rectangular knit fabric. Other items include the "kote" snood and arm covers, named "tsutsu." Mino's new spring collection, "yoko" and "tate," are unisex and suitable for outdoor activities, kimonos, and casual wear. Both lines feature five two-tone colors. A light and warm poncho is perfect for the chilly early spring weather. Hasami ware in Nagasaki has been producing tableware for everyday use by common people since the Edo period. Maruhiro Co., Ltd., which is expanding the possibilities of this kiln, which has traditionally focused on everyday items, is also a member of the "Dainipponichi" initiative. "Because Hasami ware is surrounded by kilns known for their offerings, such as Imari and Arita, it was decided to produce everyday utensils for the common people. To mass-produce these items, we have one of Japan's largest climbing kilns. Apparently, there was also a rule that each design should take no more than two minutes to complete," explains Kyohei Baba, explaining the history and background of the kiln.
The celebratory medium-sized plate, featuring a motif of "kinkato," a sea bream-shaped sweet often given as a celebratory gift, is popular as a gift for celebrations. Baba's brand, "HASAMI," is based on the concept of tools and develops products each year with a country theme. Next year's theme is Germany, with ceramic lamps and candle covers decorated with green and blue glazes reminiscent of the deep German forests. The light filtering through the heavy lamps and candle covers evokes a warmth, like a light suddenly appearing in the middle of a forest. Also appealing is the limited edition coffee cup and ashtray set, created in collaboration with Kamide Choemon Kiln, a Kutani ware manufacturer in Ishikawa Prefecture.
"Owan-ya Uchida" is a company based in Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture, that has been making Echizen lacquerware for 200 years through eight generations. Their lacquer bowls, which can be used in everyday life, are popular. By applying layers of colored and wiped lacquer to bowls carved out of plain natural wood (Japanese cherry), the company offers transparent, vibrantly colored bowls for everyday use.
Dainipponichi has more than 20 partner companies across Japan, including Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten, Maruhiro, and Saifuku. We hope you will enjoy the unique worldviews of the Dainipponichi members.
