Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture has a rich and fascinating history, and one part of this is the local artisanship - in particular, the origins of kamakurabori, a type of lacquerwere unique to this area of Japan. Kamakurabori has a history dating back between 700 to 800 years, and if you have an interest in seeing artisans at work you're able to do so at the Hakkodo showroom and workshop.
Hakkodo is the oldest producer of kamakurabori in Kamakura, with 29 generations of the same family designing and creating these pieces. Seeing the intricacy of the work gives you a new appreciation for the items you'll see for sale in their showroom, which include plates, cups, and tea caddies.
Getting there
The Hakkodo showroom and workshop are located approximately ten minutes on foot from Kamakura Station, served by the Yokosuka Line, Shonan-Shinjuku Line, and Enoshima Electric Railway. The premises is by the entrance to the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
