Our Philosophy

Rather than making the wisdom of our ancestors a thing of the past, we add our sense of living in the present age, make it more fit to the present day, and create a mechanism which can be delivered to everyone in the world.

It is said that the world has plunged into an age of VUCA – an acronym for volatility, uncertainly, complexity and ambiguity. Japan has a culture that is skilled in dealing with complex things as it is. This can be explained by the influence of kata (standard form or pattern of movement and procedure) that were developed in passing down its performing arts and artisan skills. Kata goes hand in hand with ma (spacing; distance; interval), which is something that goes not permit formalization. Out of ma, dynamic kata forms were born and passed down within families who preserved traditions of vocational skills.

We believe that this kind of Japanese culture has tips that will enrich our lives even in the chaotic times. Tradition is also something that our ancestors have always added the sense of next generation and supported our lives while increasing the depth by repeating it.

We pursue spiritual richness that people who pick it up in their hand can feel by cherishing and transmitting the story hidden in the product rather than treating it as a mere thing.

Our products are supported by the work of craftsman all over Japan. Many craftsmen’ efforts and skills such as craftsmen who make the tools of the trade, craftsmen who make raw materials, and craftsmen who produce unique finished products, etc. are joined together to create true products that can be delivered to everyone with confidence.

Kiwa is a most important concept in Japan, which means much more than the physical edge of things. Kiwadatsu–the verb, “to stand out”-is comprised of kiwa and tatsu(to stand), and is a foremost quality sought in Japanese design. Based on experience and intuition, properly catching subtle changes in materials, and climate and also transforming imagination into a physical manifestation while determining the texture. Using intuition is same as guessing right, and the process of making a single work is a series of discernments (kiwa-mi).

If you are to live 80 years, you may have about 90,000 meals. Meals have limited number of occurrences, but it’s also a moment you have every day. 

We value that time, and help you relax and make time where you can smile with your loved ones. World-famous Mr. Rosanjin phrased that “dishware is the kimono of food”, and Mr. Ferran Adria, the genius chef of El Bulli, said that “cooking is an experience”.

 Our food culture is diversifying year by year and there are many convenient disposable plastic containers. However, we consider meal as a time to spend our life with our favorite dish wares and loved ones, and rather than taking it as an action to satisfy our stomach, we will help you to spend your life more richly and assist in creating an eco-friendly life.  

If you have any questions or opinions, please feel free to contact us anytime.

Sincerely yours 

JAPAN KUTANI SHOP Master