vibrant & timeless

Japan Suite is passionate about showcasing the
inspirational ideas and visions of Japanese artisans and entrepreneurs.
We are a resource for connecting independent artists and
innovative businesses in Japan to international markets —
as well as connecting people around the world with the talented ideas emerging from Japan.

Currently our online gallery is promoting Japanese artisans
who are re-interpreting the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese crafts. 

Product care

  • Lacquerware can last a very long time with a good care. Lacquerware is erroneously thought to be fragile, but in reality, it’s actually very sturdy and long lasting when produced properly as these bowl are.
    With the following care, lacquerware can add even more shine the more it is used, and it can be handed down for generations.

    Here are the best direction for care:

    • Hand wash using a soft cloth with warm water. We suggest cleaning the bowls shortly after each meal. If the grease is hard to remove, use a mild dish soap and definitely avoid abrasive cleansers. Dry with soft cloth.

    • It is not recommended to soak in water for long. Also, dishwasher and microwave use will impact the durability and lifetime of each item..

    • We don’t recommend using sharp or hard hard utensils. Those made of wood, bamboo and plastic are ideal to avoid scratching the lacquer coating.

    • Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight or high heat.

  • Crackle glazed pieces,  with their glass-like surfaces and tiny cracks, are appreciated in tea ceremonies. The tea absorbed in the cracks gives a particular color and flavor, adding a unique depth and character. During the ceremony,  aficionados will view the tea absorbed cracks and appreciate its beauty.
    However, there are a few tips to keep your piece age nicely without harsh stain and odor.

    General use

    Hand washing with a soft cloth or sponge is recommended for cleaning. These products are not dishwasher/microwave safe.

    Special care when acquired a new ceramics:

    1. Objects made of clay are recommended to be boiled when acquired. This will tighten the structure of the clay and increase their resistance to stain. The best way is to dip the piece in boiling water, which was used to wash rice in (but don't worry as this could be plain water if rice is not available), and let it boil in low heat for 10 to 30 min, allowing the porous openings in the clay to absorb starchy water, which seals and makes it more resistant.

    2. Then, let it cool naturally.

    3. Dry the piece thoroughly afterward. If you are using the water from rinsing the rice, you will need to rinse the piece off in running water and dry.

    This process makes the structure of the ceramics a little tighter and tougher.
    Japan Suite takes care of this part so you can start using right when you open the box!

    Extra care

    The porous surface will absorb oil and food easily. Soaking the piece in water for 5-30 min before use will prevent the food and liquid be absorbed. Another good tip is to place a piece of paper towel or napkin in the piece when serving deep fried food. However, if you don't use the napkin, it's fine. It just lends different character.

    In the event you feel you need a repair of lacquerware, please contact Japan Suite.

    • Wash the glass product with a gentle detergent. Do not use an abrasive sponge, steel wool scouring pad and any other item that could scratch the glass.

    • Avoid extreme changes of temperature, especially freezing.

    • Not intended for use in microwaves, conventional ovens or dishwashers.

    • Stacking is not recommended.

    • To remove stains in the cut areas of the glass: Use a toothbrush or natural fiber brush. You can also rub a mixture of salted lemon or salted vinegar into the cut areas with a soft cloth.

    • Do not store in direct sunlight.

  • Color and size can be slightly different from the image

    • It is recommended to hand-wash in cold water without detergent at the beginning of use

GLOSSARY

  • A style of pottery where a dark clay body is covered with a thin white slip and then a translucent glaze. Originating from Korea, it became popular among tea ceremony practitioners in 16th-century Japan.

  • A process of sealing the porous surface of ceramics to prevent liquid absorption, stains, and odors. It involves heating the pottery and then soaking it in water before use.

  • Traditional Japanese lacquer, Urushi, derived from the sap of the urushi tree. Used as a coating for various materials, it hardens to a durable, glossy finish.

  • Tenugui are traditional Japanese hand towels made from thin, often brightly colored cotton, measuring approximately 30 by 90 centimeters. Originating during the Edo period (1603–1867), they gained popularity among the common people, especially after Kabuki actors used them as promotional items.

  • A traditional method for dyeing tenugui, where dye is poured over layered fabric using a stencil resist. The dye penetrates both sides, creating reversible patterns. Over time, the colors fade beautifully with use.

  • The art of repairing broken pottery by joining the pieces together with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. This method not only restores the functionality of the item but also highlights its history and imperfections, turning them into unique features.

  • Sabiyu, or rust glaze, is a glaze with high iron content that produces warm, earthy tones, often ranging from reddish-brown to deep ochre. The name "sabi" (錆) refers to "rust," aligning with the wabi-sabi aesthetic, which embraces natural aging and imperfections. Sabiyu glazes enhance the organic texture of the clay body and are commonly seen in Bizen, Shigaraki, and Iga pottery. Over time, sabiyu glazes may deepen in color, making them more expressive with use.

  • A slip inlay technique in pottery where a dark clay body is inlaid with white slip, creating intricate patterns.

  • Literally meaning "blue ash," it's a mixture of Isunoki plant ash and minerals used in certain glazes, particularly in the Shigaraki region.

  • Tetsuyu, or iron glaze, is made by adding iron oxide to the glaze formula, resulting in rich tones ranging from dark brown to glossy black. Depending on the firing conditions and clay body, tetsuyu can develop complex variations, including amber hues, oil-spot textures, or even metallic sheens. It is often used in Seto, Karatsu, and Oribe pottery. In some cases, tetsuyu interacts with other glazes, creating beautiful contrasts, such as deep brown accents over white slip.

    Both glazes highlight the expressive qualities of Japanese ceramics, where natural materials and kiln conditions play a crucial role in the final appearance.

  • A Japanese aesthetic that finds beauty in imperfection, transience, and the natural cycle of growth and decay. It appreciates simplicity, asymmetry, and the weathered appearance of objects, reflecting the passage of time.

Questions?

If you would like to learn more about the work showcased here as well as the artists who created it, please send us a message using the form here. We will be more than happy to discuss with you.

For purchasing products, please include product name, quantity, and zip code.

All the products showcased here are artists' handmade, one-of-a-kind creations. Reordered pieces may differ slightly from the photo shown.
Back order will take up to 3-to-9 months.