Ongoing
Urushi Refining and Blending
1909 -
We are a supplier of materials that shape the future of Urushi culture.
Urushi and culture are both alive.Preserving techniques and values alone isn't enough; we must connect with people and nature. By doing so, we can reclaim the past and create something new. Through Urushi, we can cultivate a brighter, more sustainable future.
To invesitigate
Our core mission has remained unchanged since our founding: to work as a supplier of Urushi. By understanding its unique characteristics, we refine and blend to meet the highest standards. Mastering this craft is our purpose.
To cultivate/nuture
Everything we create begins with planting—craftsmanship that nurtures people and the planet. Through Urushi, we connect lives and values, and culture, cultivating the soil for Urushi culture to extend into the future.
To extend
From bowls to surfboards, and beyond, we showcase Urushi's versatility as a material and explore new possibilities. By blending Urushi with diverse elements, we generate fresh value at the convergence of Urushi and people.
Located next to the factory inherited through the years, 'Und.' has been established as a place where Urushi meets the world.
1F SHOP＆GALLERY
Offering products from the viewpoint of both creators and users, you can buy Urushi, tools, and Urushi items
In addition to tools, materials, and supplies for artisans and Urushi artists, we also sell products that allow people to experience Urushi up close, such as Kintsugi and Urushi experience kits. We also offer custom Urushi coating services for items like surfboards, skateboards, and bicycles.
3F WORKSPACE
Learn and experience Urushi. A center for interaction that nurtures the next generation of craftsmanship
A space for creating original Urushi products, a workshop for young artisans to craft their works, and a venue for hosting workshops and events. Moreover, focusing on Urushi art, we plan to offer a concierge service to connect Kyoto’s traditional crafts, curating a range of projects that allow people to engage with Kyoto’s culture.
FACTORY
This factory carries the heart of Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi Inc.
Our factory has been the heart of our company for over 100 years, refining Urushi for various uses. This includes the restoration of national treasures and important cultural properties, such as the Nikko Toshogu Shrine. We fulfil custom requests from Urushi artists and craftsmen worldwide. Experience our craftsmanship through a factory tour, (reservation required, fee applies).
urushi
From spaces for daily living and places of prayer to places for learning and places for play, we are exploring the 'possibilities of Urushi' that expand across all scenes of life
Experiences
Urushi Immersion Tours & Experiences
Discover, learn, experience – a lineup of content that allows you to explore the world of Urushi from different angles. We are here to help you make a new connection with Urushi culture
Online Shop
In addition to various Urushi materials and tools, we also sell at-home experience kits such as Fuki-Urushi Kits and Kintsugi Kits. We also offer repair services for Kintsugi and Urushiware
& Nature
"A 10,000-year history of Urushi, living with culture."
Founded in 1909 in Kyoto, with the spirit of 'Not wasting a single drop of Urushi' — honouring the vision of first-generation Asakichi Tsutsumi, we explore new possibilities for Urushi while preserving its cultural legacy for the future.
Works &Development
Examples of Urushi Applications and Collaborations with Research Institutions and Companies
We’re excited to collaborate with leading research institutions, universities, and companies to innovate and develop tools and technologies around Urushi. Through these partnerships, we are advancing the traditional craft of Urushi into exciting new applications. Below, we showcase some of the innovative ways we’ve applied Urushi, and the incredible projects we’ve been a part of. For any questions about research, development, or Urushi coating services, feel free to reach out through our "Contact" section below.
