NOSAKU 株式会社

“Living with Lacquer” – Kanazawa Urushi since 1780

“Since 1780 – Embedding Urushi in Daily Life”

In 1780, the first of his generation, Notoya Sakutarō, founded a shop dedicated to urushi (Japanese lacquer) in Musashiga-tsuji, Oyama (Kaga Province). For over 240 years – now in its eighth generation – Nosaku has been involved in distributing urushi, as well as producing and selling fine lacquerware, always with the mission of carrying forward the urushi culture. At the core of the company remains the founder’s merchant principle:
“A business exists for its customers.”

Tradition & Evolution

Nosaku sees itself as a guardian of lacquerware excellence – with a focus on Kanazawa-Shikki (金沢漆器), Kaga-Makie (加賀蒔絵), Wajima-nuri (輪島塗), and Yamanaka-nuri (山中塗). Every product undergoes rigorous quality control by in-house inspectors before it reaches customers.

Kanazawa-Shikki – Lacquerware from Kanazawa

The tradition dates back to 1630, when the third daimyō of the Maeda clan, Maeda Toshitsune, invited the renowned makie (gold/silver lacquer decoration) master Igarashi Dohō from Kyoto to Kanazawa – marking the beginning of a golden age for Kanazawa lacquerware. Influenced by courtly elegance and samurai aesthetics, beauty and functionality were harmoniously combined. Since then, these artistic objects have carried the name Kanazawa-Shikki.

Philosophy & Sustainability

The company places great importance on preserving beauty and life – urushi objects made from natural wood and tree resin are notable for their repairability and durability. This aligns with modern SDG principles (Sustainable Development Goals, adopted by the United Nations in 2015). Nosaku strives for a philosophy of “three-way benefit” (sanpō yoshi): where seller, artisan, and buyer all prosper equally. Both traditional and contemporary, Nosaku brings Kanazawa culture from Japan to the world.

Kanazawa – The “Golden Marshland” of Japan

Geographical Location & History

Kanazawa is located in Ishikawa Prefecture on the west coast of Honshu, about two hours from Tokyo by Shinkansen. The name literally means “golden marsh” and stems from a legend in which gold flakes were once found in a potato field’s irrigation ditch. Since the 16th century, Kanazawa served as the seat of the powerful Maeda clan, which led to its flourishing as a cultural and political center. The city was well fortified and rich in temples and gardens—especially Kenroku-en, one of the “Three Great Gardens of Japan.”

Cityscape & Attractions

Today, Kanazawa presents a fascinating mix of historical architecture—such as the Higashi Chaya tea district—and modern infrastructure, including the futuristic train station with its iconic Tsuzumi Gate. Kenroku-en enchants visitors with its elaborate landscape design and water features in all seasons. The preserved samurai residences, tea houses, and the castle grounds complete the city’s impressive historical ambiance.

Traditional Crafts

Kanazawa is home to an exceptional tradition of craftsmanship, with over 20 UNESCO-recognized artisan techniques—from gold leaf and lacquerware to silk dyeing:

  • Kanazawa Gold Leaf (Kanazawa-haku): About 99% of Japan’s gold leaf is produced here. Expertly hammered and wafer-thin, it traditionally embellishes religious art and today even tops desserts like ice cream.

  • Kutani Ceramics (Kutani-yaki): Vivid porcelain featuring detailed figurative and nature motifs, produced in the region since the 17th century.

  • Kaga Yuzen Silk Dyeing: Intricate kimono fabrics hand-painted with fine patterns of flowers, birds, and landscapes.

  • Kanazawa Lacquerware (Shikki) and Kaga Makie: Elegant ritual and everyday objects adorned with gold dust or metal inlays. Master craftsmen like Shōgyo Ōba have been recognized as Living National Treasures.

In addition, other techniques such as Wajima-nuri, Yamanaka Shikki, embroidery, papermaking, Buddhist shrine crafts, and many more are traditionally preserved and practiced.

A Living Craft Culture

Kanazawa’s vibrant artisan community is very much alive: the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Traditional Arts and Crafts exhibits over 36 traditional crafts, and regular workshops invite visitors to actively participate. In 2009, Kanazawa was officially named a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art.

Modern Challenges & Renewal

Following the severe 2024 Noto Earthquake, many artisans—particularly Wajima-nuri lacquerware makers—relocated to the safety of Kanazawa. The city supported them with grants and exhibition/sales initiatives—an example of living solidarity and creative collaboration.

Conclusion

Kanazawa is far more than a historic city—it is a vibrant hub of living tradition, where centuries-old craftsmanship flows into everyday modern life. Every step through its stone-paved alleys, workshops, and museums tells the story of an evolving cultural heritage. Visitors here experience Japan in its deepest and most multifaceted cultural expression—an unforgettable journey framed by tea ceremony gardens, artful gold and silk souvenirs, and the warm presence of genuine craftsmanship.