In Higo–Kumamoto, where both the literary and martial arts once flourished, a wide variety of traditional crafts continue to thrive today, including Higo zogan metal inlay and fine ceramics.
Now in its fifth year, Kumamoto Monozukuri Journey showcases outstanding examples of traditional crafts unique to Kumamoto, created by a diverse range of artisans—from those who have participated before to those joining us for the first time.
Through these works, we hope you will experience the rich culture of craftsmanship that has been nurtured in Higo–Kumamoto over generations.
Kumamoto Monozukuri Journey
Participating Creators
Koda-yaki “Rim Bowl” crafted using traditional techniques.
Higo Koda Ware Denshichi Kiln
These Koda-yaki pieces feature an elegant, gentle hue created by celadon glaze, with the rim finished using the traditional kaki-otoshi (sgraffito) technique. They are ideal for everyday use as well as for gifting.
Traditional Craft Higo Zogan Earrings – “Twinkling Star.”
Kinoshita Yoko
Higo Zogan, a traditional metalworking technique passed down in Kumamoto for 400 years. Fine patterns are engraved on an iron base, and pure gold, blue gold, and pure silver are inlaid to create a star motif.
Stained Glass Buddhist Altar – A Space of Light and Prayer.
Yoshida Woodcraft
This piece was created with the concept of ma in Japanese architecture in mind—a space for prayer shaped by wood and light. It offers a serene area for reflection and prayer, quietly opening within everyday life.
A glowing flower field made with the natural material “orishi.”
Minamata Haguregumo Kobo
These works combine light-transmitting three-dimensional woven paper with preserved and dried flowers, creating a new form of lighting that brings a gentle, natural ambiance to your space.
~FEEL SO GOOD~ The Delightful “Santoku Knife”
Minomo Blacksmith
We crafted these pieces with the hope that your time in the kitchen becomes a little more enjoyable and truly pleasant. Each one is carefully forged with heartfelt attention.
The Zodiac for Reiwa 8: Wooden Horse – Hinoe Uma.
Kojinsha
These wooden zodiac figures have been crafted continuously for over a quarter of a century. The Horse (Uma), the zodiac sign for 2026, is depicted striding forward with strength and vitality.
The handcrafted woodworking piece “Sugi Cutter Knife” by Kumamoto Mokko.
Ishino-Wood
This utility knife features a handle made from Oguni cedar, a locally sourced wood from Kumamoto Prefecture, allowing you to feel the warmth of natural wood in the palm of your hand. It also makes a thoughtful gift for occasions such as starting a new chapter in school.
Traditional Craft Higo Zogan Golf Marker.
mitsusuke
Higo Zogan, a traditional craft officially designated by the Japanese government, is used to create this golf marker. The marker features inlay techniques originally applied to sword guards during the Edo period. It also makes a wonderful gift.
Higo Zogan, a traditional craft of Kumamoto: Horseshoe Earrings.
Standing Straight
These earrings are handmade from the iron bases to the finish of pure gold by Standing Straight (Yoku Aso), a single nationally designated traditional craftsman. He is also particular about his unique luster of black rust finish, which develops rust naturally over several weeks for harder and stronger black rust, just like old works in the Edo era.
Double-Edged Sickle – Hand-Forged Finish Since the Edo Period.
Miyao Cutlery
This double-edged sickle (180 mm blade length) is crafted using carefully selected materials and traditional manufacturing methods. Its exceptional sharpness and beautifully refined finish showcase the meticulous skill of the artisan, making it a truly distinctive piece.
A beautiful Damascus knife crafted using traditional techniques.
kumabehamono
A knife featuring a beautiful Damascus pattern. The metal parts are entirely stainless steel, making it highly resistant to rust and ensuring long-lasting use.
Koda-yaki “Rim Bowl” crafted using traditional techniques.
Higo Takada Ware Denshichi Kiln
These Koda-yaki pieces feature an elegant, gentle hue created by celadon glaze, with the rim finished using the traditional kaki-otoshi (sgraffito) technique. They are ideal for everyday use as well as for gifting.
Traditional Craft Higo Zogan Earrings – “Twinkling Star.”
Kinoshita Yoko
Higo Zogan, a traditional metalworking technique passed down in Kumamoto for 400 years. Fine patterns are engraved on an iron base, and pure gold, blue gold, and pure silver are inlaid to create a star motif.
Stained Glass Buddhist Altar – A Space of Light and Prayer.
Yoshida Woodcraft
This piece was created with the concept of ma in Japanese architecture in mind—a space for prayer shaped by wood and light. It offers a serene area for reflection and prayer, quietly opening within everyday life.
A glowing flower field made with the natural material “orishi.”
Minamata Haguregumo Kobo
These works combine light-transmitting three-dimensional woven paper with preserved and dried flowers, creating a new form of lighting that brings a gentle, natural ambiance to your space.
~FEEL SO GOOD~ The Delightful “Santoku Knife”
Minomo Blacksmith
We crafted these pieces with the hope that your time in the kitchen becomes a little more enjoyable and truly pleasant. Each one is carefully forged with heartfelt attention.
The Zodiac for Reiwa 8: Wooden Horse – Hinoe Uma.
Kojinsha
These wooden zodiac figures have been crafted continuously for over a quarter of a century. The Horse (Uma), the zodiac sign for 2026, is depicted striding forward with strength and vitality.
The handcrafted woodworking piece “Sugi Cutter Knife” by Kumamoto Mokko.
Ishino-Wood
This utility knife features a handle made from Oguni cedar, a locally sourced wood from Kumamoto Prefecture, allowing you to feel the warmth of natural wood in the palm of your hand. It also makes a thoughtful gift for occasions such as starting a new chapter in school.
Traditional Craft Higo Zogan
Golf Marker.
mitsusuke
Higo Zogan, a traditional craft officially designated by the Japanese government, is used to create this golf marker. The marker features inlay techniques originally applied to sword guards during the Edo period. It also makes a wonderful gift.
Higo Zogan, a traditional craft of Kumamoto: Horseshoe Earrings.
Standing Straight
These earrings are handmade from the iron bases to the finish of pure gold by Standing Straight (Yoku Aso), a single nationally designated traditional craftsman. He is also particular about his unique luster of black rust finish, which develops rust naturally over several weeks for harder and stronger black rust, just like old works in the Edo era.
Double-Edged Sickle – Hand-Forged Finish Since the Edo Period.
Miyao Cutlery
This double-edged sickle (180 mm blade length) is crafted using carefully selected materials and traditional manufacturing methods. Its exceptional sharpness and beautifully refined finish showcase the meticulous skill of the artisan, making it a truly distinctive piece.
A beautiful Damascus knife crafted using traditional techniques.
kumabehamono
A knife featuring a beautiful Damascus pattern. The metal parts are entirely stainless steel, making it highly resistant to rust and ensuring long-lasting use.
© CREEMA LTD.