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What is Traditional Crafts｜The difference between traditional crafts and their history and appeal

Traditional Japanese crafts are the culmination of skills and aesthetics nurtured by artisans over a long and distinguished history. These crafts are deeply connected to the culture and natural environment of each region, and have been passed down from generation to generation by the hands of craftspeople.

Its value and importance are being reevaluated with the times, and it continues to be loved by many people in modern society. This article will provide an overview and definition of traditional crafts and their contemporary significance in detail.

What are Traditional Crafts?

Traditional crafts are crafts made using techniques and methods that have been handed down over the years. The definition is not based on any strict legal criteria, but is used as a relatively broad meaning. It refers to handicrafts and traditional manufacturing rooted in the local community, and includes all crafts that are considered "traditional" without specific legal recognition.

Therefore, the specific definition of traditional crafts is vague, and in most cases, each municipality certifies its own products. Currently, there are more than 1,300 types of crafts throughout Japan.

Difference between Traditional Crafts and Traditional Crafts

traditional handicrafts

As mentioned above, it refers to crafts made by techniques and methods that have been handed down over the years. Since there is no specific definition for the use of the name, it is used in most cases with a broad meaning.

Traditional" crafts

Traditional crafts are designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry based on the "Law Concerning the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries (Densen-San Law)". In order to receive official recognition as a "traditional craft" under this law, the following five conditions must be met.

• Must be used in daily life
• The main part of the manufacturing process is handcrafted.
• The use of traditional techniques and methods that have been in use for more than 100 years.
• To be manufactured using traditionally used raw materials
• The industry must be established as an industry in a certain region.

Only crafts that meet these conditions are certified as "traditional crafts.

Reference:https://kyokai.kougeihin.jp/traditional-crafts/

 

Main Differences

Traditional crafts are used in a broad sense and refer to all crafts that reflect local culture and techniques. Traditional crafts, on the other hand, are only those crafts that meet legal requirements and are officially recognized. As a result, the number of traditional crafts is smaller than that of traditional handicrafts, and as of 2024, the number of traditional crafts is estimated to be approximately 241.

Difference between crafts and folk art

Next, we will focus on the difference between traditional crafts and folk art.

Both traditional crafts and folk art are made by handicraft, but there are significant differences in the purpose and intent of their production. Handicrafts have high artistic value and are made by skilled craftsmen using advanced techniques. Folk crafts, on the other hand, are used in daily life and are characterized by simple designs rooted in the local community.

While crafts are often made for commercial purposes and highly prized as gifts or museum exhibits, folk art is more everyday and functional, created by nameless artisans using local climate and materials.

Typical Japanese Traditional Crafts

In Japan, there are various traditional crafts that have been handed down throughout the country. In this issue, we will introduce four representative examples, selected from among the many available.

Kiriko

 

Edo faceting is said to have originated in 1834, when the surface of glass was engraved using vigor sand. Later, under the guidance of an Englishman during the Meiji period (1868-1912), the traditional glass crafting technique handed down to the present day was established. Many of the patterns of Edo faceting are based on familiar objects, such as "fish," "hemp leaves," and "chrysanthemum joints," and can be said to be crafts that convey "Edo sophistication" and "Japanese lifestyle culture" to the present day.

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Nambu Ironware

 

Morioka has long had ample iron resources, making the area suitable for the foundry industry. The Nanbu clan of Iwate Prefecture, which paid attention to this area, had tea kettles made there, which was the beginning of Nanbu ironware. Later, over the course of its history as a gift item, Nambu ironware was recognized for its robust beauty. The weight and stability of ironware, coupled with its unique rough texture, makes its rustic beauty appealing.

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kumiko-work

Kumiko" is a woodworking technique in which wood is assembled into geometric patterns without the use of nails. The patterns created by assembling minute parts one by one create a regular beauty. Okawa Kumiko" boasts a history of approximately 300 years, and has more than 200 traditional methods of assembling, which have been handed down to the present day as more delicate.

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Kitchen Knife

The traditionally crafted kitchen knives introduced here are called "Echizen Uchihamono," which originated in 1337 when sickles were made for farmers. Its characteristics are that it is thin, light, and strong. Not only does it use the ancient Japanese casting technique of "hand sharpening," but it also has a technique unique to Echizen Uchihamono.

The Role of Traditional Crafts in Today's World

 

Role as a symbol of Japanese culture

Traditional crafts are important symbols that reflect the culture and history of Japan to date. These items not only represent the uniqueness of each region, but also represent Japan internationally.

The techniques and designs of traditional crafts are highly appreciated by inbound visitors to Japan and overseas art lovers, contributing to cultural exchange and the promotion of Japanese culture. Furthermore, at domestic and international exhibitions and expositions, Japanese crafts are introduced to the world, which helps to spread Japanese culture.

Succession and Technological Development

Traditional crafts do not simply exist as a legacy of the past. Numerous artisans have preserved traditional techniques while making improvements to meet modern needs and lifestyles. This flexible attitude has supported the long history of traditional crafts to date.

One of the innovations is the use of systems such as the Regional Development Cooperation Corps to train artisans and pass on their skills. The increasing attention being paid to the work of artisans and the growing number of new generations of artisans is an indispensable link for the future of traditional crafts.

Demands and Challenges in Today's World

Today, traditional crafts are used less and less as necessities of daily life as they once were. Demand for traditional crafts has been declining as mass-produced products and inexpensive foreign products have taken over the market. In recent years, however, traditional crafts have begun to attract renewed attention in Japan and abroad, and their cultural value is being reevaluated.

In particular, collaborations with animation and movies, as well as the development of overseas markets, have led to the development of new markets. Through these measures, the appeal of traditional crafts is spreading to the younger generation.

The Future of Traditional Crafts

Traditional crafts are symbols of history and culture, and are a precious heritage that should be passed on to the next generation. However, they face challenges such as the aging of craftspeople and lack of successors. In order to solve this problem, it is essential that the government and local communities work together to provide support and communicate the appeal of traditional crafts to the younger generation, as mentioned above.

In addition, there is a possibility that traditional crafts themselves will evolve further in the future as products are developed to meet modern lifestyles and values. Continuing to take on new challenges while preserving techniques will be a catalyst for opening up the future of traditional crafts.