Nagiso Rokuro Zaiku

Nagiso rokuro zaiku is a traditional woodturning craft that developed in the village of Nagiso in Nagano prefecture, a location surrounded by abundant greenery. It is a specialty product that is distinctive of tree country. Utilizing wood that is carefully selected by seasoned craftsmen, rokuro zaiku products include practical everyday turned goods, such as round tea set boxes, trays, bowls, and more. The material qualities and natural grain of the wood differ depending on the type of tree, so the delicate variations in the aesthetic of each kind of wood are taken into consideration when determining the shape and type of product that will be made from it. Over time, people’s lifestyle and preferences have become more diversified. The materials and designs of Nagiso turnery have adapted in keeping with these changes and new products have continued to evolve. 

By the early Shōwa period, the region was delivering products, such as tea trays and tea set boxes, throughout Japan. At this time, both plain wood products as well as fuki-urushi rubbed lacquered objects were being shipped out in large quantities. In spite of encountering difficulties, such as the growing scarcity of raw timber in the area and poor transport conditions, the gradual rise in appreciation for the value of handmade objects and the natural beauty of wood have allowed the craft to continue to the present day. 

Horse chestnut, zelkova, castor aralia, katsura, cherry birch and other broadleaf trees are used in Nagiso rokuro zaiku. The kinds of moderate weight woods with beautiful, even grain that meet the conditions that are considered ideal for this craft all come from trees that are more than one hundred years old. 

The logs that are selected by the craftsmen are cross-cut in a process called tamagiri. These cross-sections are machined for maximum efficiency depending on the type, size and purpose of the products being made from them. 

Using a finishing turning chisel called a shaka, the grooves from rough turning are carved away and the finished surface is made smooth. This task, which is carried out on a turning lathe, requires masterful proficiency. Precise techniques of applying the blade and carving that can only come from years of experience are key to bringing the beautiful wood grain to the surface. 

Being hand-produced by individual artisans, each of these objects is unique. This process results in a distinctive warmth of the wood material that comes from a combination of the beauty of the wood grain created by nature and the skill of the artisan’s hand.

The decline in raw timber that has served as the material for this craft has become a growing problem and since 2006 there has been activity to protect and promote timber culture and sustainable forests. A “Nagiso Traditional Craft Forest” has been created and forests of zelkova, horse chestnut, and other trees that become materials for turning craft have been planted and maintained, while other modes of timber cultivation have also advanced. Raising good timber results in good product. The town of Nagiso will continue to pass down this culture in the future as the leading production region of wood turning craft in Japan.