The Day KASHIKO Was Born — A Story of Kutani Ware and a Small Incense Container

Hello, this is KASHIKO.
Today, I’d like to share the story of an encounter that marked the beginning of our journey.

The inspiration behind launching KASHIKO came from a chance meeting with a Kutani ware artist.
One day, I happened to stop by a gallery and was captivated by a small incense container.
It fit perfectly in the palm of my hand, yet carried an auspicious design and a quiet, dignified beauty.

I purchased it on the spot, and later had the opportunity to speak with the artist herself.
She spoke with quiet passion, devoting herself wholeheartedly to her craft. At the same 

time, she shared the challenges of sustaining her work—both creatively and financially—as an independent artist.

Her sincerity and dedication moved us deeply.
We began to ask ourselves: “Is there something we can do to support artists like her?”

Our expertise lies in design and printing. While we cannot create Kutani ware ourselves, we realized that our 40 years of experience in design and craftsmanship could be used to bring the artists’ sensibilities to life in everyday forms—such as stationery and furoshiki (wrapping cloths).

In search of that possibility, the brand KASHIKO was born.

“We want to create moments where beauty quietly touches the heart.”
“We want to build a path that allows these works to reach more people—beyond the world of ceramics.”

With that spirit, we’ve been working closely with Kutani artists to carefully craft letter paper, postcards, furoshiki, small plates, stationery, and more.

KASHIKO’s products are not only beautiful to the eye—they are made to carry a sense of kindness and emotional depth to the giver, the receiver, and everyone who holds them in their hands.

We hope this brand story offers you a glimpse into the heart of our craftsmanship, and the spirit behind everything we create at KASHIKO.