Timeless Urushi for the Everyday Table｜ Hideo Oka’s Lifelong Lacquer Craft

Masters of Japan is a documentary series exploring the passion, stories, and craftsmanship of the people keeping Japan's cultural traditions alive. In this episode, we visit Tokizo Kobo, the studio of Hideo Oka, a master artisan of Kamakurabori (Kamakura-style carved lacquerware) based in the historic city of Kamakura. Urushi lacquerware has a history in Japan dating back over 10,000 years to the Jōmon period. Beyond tableware, it has long been used to restore and protect sacred temples and shrines, becoming deeply embedded in Japanese life and culture. While urushi is often treated as a delicate luxury item today, Hideo Oka believes its true beauty lies in being part of our everyday lives. From ordinary meals to casual outdoor barbecues, he believes lacquerware should be enjoyed freely rather than treated as something too precious to use. We sat down with the master artisan to hear about his journey and why he hopes urushi can once again become a natural part of people's lives. ◼️Artisan Profile: Hideo Oka ーTokizo Kobo A master Kamakurabori artisan with over 40 years of experience, Hideo Oka specializes in traditional lacquerware, furniture restoration, and hosting kintsugi workshops. Always eager to explore new possibilities, he has also spent 20 years crafting custom ukuleles and even lacquering sea kayaks to expand the modern possibilities of urushi. ◼️About Wabunka Wabunka was founded to carry Japan’s cultural traditions into the future. We work with artisans and local communities to create authentic experiences that allow travelers to discover a more personal and meaningful side of Japan. These encounters go beyond sightseeing. Travelers meet artisans, experience their craft firsthand, and discover the stories behind Japan’s traditions, landscapes, and daily life. Web: https://wabunka-lux.jp/ Instagram:   / wabunka.japan   facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wabunka.japa... #wabunka #japantravel #kamakura #japaneseculture