Wakasa-nuri Artisan: Yoichiro Hada

The lacquered chopsticks crafted by traditional artisan Yoichiro Hada possess a breathtaking elegance, with deep, rich colors and beautifully intricate patterns that are truly awe-inspiring.

What is Wakasa-nuri?

Wakasa-nuri has a storied history, beginning during the Keicho era (1596–1614) when Sanjuro Matsuura from the Obama domain created lacquered trays inspired by Chinese lacquerware. His apprentice then developed the “Isokusa-nuri” style, capturing the beauty of Wakasa’s coastal landscape with seashells and white sand. Later, the technique of applying eggshell and gold leaf was perfected. In 1634, Tadayasu Sakai, then lord of the Obama domain, named and protected “Wakasa-nuri,” which led to the flourishing of lacquerware. Around the same time, the thin-tipped “Wakasa-nuri” chopsticks, resembling a crane’s beak and symbolizing longevity, laid the foundation for Obama to become Japan’s premier chopstick production area.

What a 300-Year-Old Workshop Values

As the 13th-generation head of the 300-year-old Hada Lacquerware Store, Yoichiro Hada believes in strict adherence to tradition:
“I just do it by the book. Follow the basics. That way, there’s no mistake.”
In an era where "lacquered" doesn’t always mean genuine lacquer, Hada-san’s dedication to using authentic urushi (Japanese lacquer) without shortcuts is a testament to his commitment to tradition.

Yoichiro Hada, Traditional Artisan
“Because it's designated as a traditional craft, I can't cut corners. It’s like my hands are tied, haha. If I started slacking, it’d be trouble.”
Now the oldest active artisan in the Wakasa-nuri industry, Hada-san’s clear and articulate speech belies his 75 years (born in 1929). Though still active, he is reassured about his successor:
“My son has already mastered the craft and has his own ideas. His designs are a bit unique. Truly, it’s time for the younger generation to take the reins.”