About KASHIKO
The Beginning of KASHIKO
It all began with a small incense container.At a gallery in Kanazawa, one piece quietly caught my eye—a small vessel that fit in the palm of my hand,adorned with auspicious motifs and a refined, dignified beauty.
I purchased it, and as I learned more about its maker,I had the opportunity to speak with the Kutani ware artist behind it.
She devoted herself fully to her craft,working with quiet passion and dedication.At the same time, she spoke candidly about the challenges
of sustaining a career as an artist.
Her words deeply moved me,and I began to wonder—could there be a way to support artists like her through my work?
For over 40 years, we have been engaged in design and printing.We cannot create Kutani ware ourselves.
But perhaps, through our experience and craftsmanship,we could express the spirit of these artistsin forms that live within everyday life—
through stationery and furoshiki.
In search of that answer,
KASHIKO was born in February 2021.
Craft from Kanazawa
KASHIKO is based in Kanazawa, Ishikawa.This city has nurtured traditional crafts for centuries—Kaga Yuzen dyeing, gold leaf, Kutani ware, and more.
Even today, artisans and creators here continue their work with quiet dedication.
Through close dialogue with these makers,we shape each piece with care—creating moments where beauty gently reaches the heart.
The Name “KASHIKO”
The name “KASHIKO” comes from Japanese letter-writing culture.Traditionally,
women would end a letter with the word “kashiko”—a graceful closing that conveys respectand leaves a gentle sense of afterthought.
Not overly expressive, yet deeply sincere.We chose this name to reflect
that same quiet thoughtfulness—to create objects that, when held,make you feel, softly, “this is beautiful.”
Aesthetic Inspired by Tea Ceremony
Hirotoshi’s perspective on craftsmanship was shaped through his experience in the Japanese tea ceremony.
In the world of tea, both gestures and toolscarry a quiet meaning, refined through simplicity.
Not excessive.
In harmony with nature.Bringing calm to the mind.This aesthetic lies at the foundationof KASHIKO’s creations.
Hirotoshi Imakawa
Founder, KASHIKO
Based in Kanazawa, Hirotoshi has spent over 40 yearsin design and craftsmanship.
Inspired by the aesthetics of the tea ceremony,he seeks to bring a sense of quiet beauty into everyday life.
In 2021, following his encounter with a Kutani ware artist,
he founded KASHIKO—
with a vision to let artistic expression go beyond traditional forms and become part of daily living.
That vision continues to guide.everything we create today.