Kamakura Lacquerware

Japanese Kamakura Lacquered Wood is a Buddhist tradition that has been passed down in history for over 800 years. Kamakura is famous for its sculpted wooden trays. They are flawlessly made and meticulously lacquered. Japanese craftsmanship at its finest.


Light of Day Workshop Hall, located at 3-12-19 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture

From the workshop website "(We are) a very strong (workshop) among lacquer ware, especially "lacquer and wood" to get the warmth of Cedar. (We craft) jujube tea box, etc., to allow us to meet any customer orders, and all repeated daily in artisan training workshop. Based on 800 years of tradition, (we) work to protect exactly the sight, and also (look forward to) a new challenge every year."

A link to the Light of Day Workshop Hall (in Japanese)

Kamakura Lacquerware Trade Association Website (in Japanese)

Japanese Arts Website Section on Lacquerwork

Shopping in Yokohama

Taking time out from a business trip in 1995 to do some shopping in Tokyo and Yokohama. Yokohama is the second largest in Japan by population. It is close to Tokyo and is considered a major port city of Japan.


Japanese figures. Figurines are given as gifts to children at various times as they grow up. This is to signify steps in adolescence.


My favorite, Japanese wood cut prints.


This picture was taken at a store in Tokyo. The store specialized in kitchen supplies. I remember that the supplies in the store were very expensive and back in 1995, there was a favorable exchange rate on the US dollar vs. the Japanese Yen.


Yokohama Skyline in 1995.


Taken from outside a Yokohama Department Store.

Coming of Age Day - Monday, January 16, 1995

Taken in a Tokyo district in 1995. As a reference point, this is the day before the Kobe earthquake that occurred on the morning of Tuesday, January 17, 1995. The women are wearing furisode, a style of kimono that feature long sleeves that drape down. They are also wearing zōri sandals, which are traditional formal foot wear. If you notice the young man nonchalantly smoking a cigarette on the right, it is illegal to smoke in Japan if you are under the age of consent.


Studio Alta, a popular gathering spot in Shinjuku.

Tokyo Essentials featuring Studio Alta


The Enoden train, it is the charming and scenic route that takes you to Kamakura.

Enoden Official Site

All of the pictures were taken in 1995.

Asakusa Entertainment Hall （Engei-Hall）

The hall has free seating (up to 340 seats) as well as paid seats. The shows feature classic comedy, comedic routines and magic. This establishment has a reputation for featuring female dancers. The picture was taken in 1995.



Places to visit in Asakusa (the entertainment hall is half way down the page)

Asakusa location in Tokyo (Japan National Tourism Website)

Sensoji Temple, Asakusa

Tokyo's oldest Temple, Sensoji Temple is located in Asakusa, Taitō Ward. These pictures were taken in 1995.


Kaminari-mon (Thunder Gate)


Nakamise-dori - small shops line the street as you approach the Temple.


The sign offers visitors alternative footwear for weary feet.

Japan Guide to Sensoji Temple