DISCOVER
WAKAYAMA
DISCOVER
WAKAYAMA
Tucked away on the southern coast of Japan’s Kansai region, Wakayama Prefecture is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Where ancient traditions, breathtaking nature, and heartfelt craftsmanship come together in perfect harmony. A haven for lovers of fine craftsmanship and local flavor. From delicate Kishu lacquerware and fragrant oils made from native woods, to the rich, tangy umeshu (plum wine) and world-famous soy sauce of Yuasa, Wakayama’s artisanal heritage is as rich as its landscapes. A place where time slows down—and every detail tells a story. Wakayama isn’t just a destination. It’s a discovery of Japan at its most serene, soulful, and deeply connected to nature.
Wood Craftsman
AZUMA
FUKUTARO
IDO TATAMI
TATAMI
CRAFTSMAN
MEET THE
CRAFTSPEOPLE
In Wakayama, craftsmanship is more than skill — it’s a quiet conversation between hands, materials, and time.From the soft weave of igusa rush to the precise joinery of kiri wood, each maker carries forward traditions shaped by the land itself.Their work is patient, deliberate, and deeply human — born not of haste, but of harmony.Here, creation is an act of care, and every piece reflects the rhythm of Wakayama’s nature and spirit.
MADE IN
WAKAYAMA
EXPERIENCE
THE PROCESS
Every craft begins long before the hands touch it.In Wakayama, materials are not chosen — they are grown, seasoned, and listened to.From the rhythm of rain on kiri wood to the scent of freshly cut igusa,each step is a dialogue between maker and material, time and care.
Wakayama, in Japan’s Kansai region, is where spiritual heritage meets breathtaking nature. The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and Mount Koya, a center of Shingon Buddhism, offer a deep sense of history and tranquility.
The prefecture also boasts dramatic coastlines, soothing hot springs like Shirahama, and a rich food culture—from fresh tuna in Katsuura to some of Japan’s sweetest mandarins. Wakayama is a destination that blends tradition, nature, and flavor into an unforgettable experience.
Wakayama is home to many workshops that continue to preserve traditional craftsmanship.
For example, Azuma creates finely crafted furniture using paulownia wood, while Inoca applies the age-old techniques of tatami making to produce sandals made from rush grass.
These artisans not only safeguard and pass down their traditional skills, but also breathe new life into them by creating innovative products for the present day.