Und.
A Hub Connecting Nature, Culture, and People
We have opened 'Und.' next to our factory, which has been inherited since our founding. This space connects Urushi with the world, and we invite everyone to visit.
ABOUT
What is Und.?
‘Und.’ (pronounced ‘and’) is the flagship store of Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi Inc., opened after renovating an office and storage space adjacent to the Urushi refining factory. To further enhance and consolidate activities like ‘Urushi no Ippo,’ ‘BEYOND TRADITION,’ and ‘Forest of Craft,’ it was launched as a hub to connect nature, life, people, and craftsmanship, with the support of many like-minded individuals.
1F SHOP＆GALLERY
A Space for Both Creators and Users: Purchase Urushi, Tools, and Products
In addition to Urushi tools and materials for craftsmen and experts, we also sell products that allow people to experience Urushi up close, such as Kintsugi and wipe-on Urushi (fuki Urushi) experience kits. There is also a studio where you can order Urushi-coated surfboards, skateboards, bicycles, and more.
PRODUCTS
We carry all the materials and tools necessary for Urushi craft, including various types of Urushi, hake, brushes, spatulas, grindstones, pigments, metal powders, and wooden materials. We also have a DIY corner where you can find experience kits for Kintsugi, Fuki-Urushi, and Nuritate.
3F WORKSPACE
Learn and Experience Urushi.
A Space for Supporting the Next Generation of Craftsmanship
The third floor is divided into two main areas: a workshop for young artisans to create and a separate venue for workshops and events. We also plan to offer a concierge service connecting Kyoto’s traditional crafts and curating projects to engage with Kyoto’s culture.
Workshops and Events
The open space, complete with an open kitchen and terrace, hosts a variety of events, workshops, and classes, mainly focused on Urushi and crafts.
Workshop
The workshop is equipped with a custom-made Urushi curing muro, where temperature and humidity are controlled. Young aspiring Urushi artists use this space to hone their skills.
FACTORY
Our Factory, the Heart of Our Company
Next to the building of Und., there is the Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi Inc’s factory. This is the ‘heart’ of Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi Inc, filled with the techniques and family memories passed down since the Meiji Period. Originally, access to the factory was highly restricted, with only a select few being allowed to enter or even peek inside. However, in our efforts to promote Urushi culture, we concluded that the factory should be made a bit more open. While it is still through glass, visitors can now observe the work being done from the outside. We do not generally offer guided tours inside, but depending on the nature of the inquiry, there may be cases where we open it up. If you would like to inquire, please feel free to contact us.
The making of Und.
Und. was built with the help of Tsutsumi Asakichi staff, along with professionals from diverse fields such as artists and craftsmen, as well as a wide network of friends and collaborators.
