The Finest Japanese Lacquer: Jōbōji Urushi

Japan’s domestic self-sufficiency rate for lacquer is only about 1–2%.
Roughly 70% of that is produced in Jōbōji, located in Ninohe City, Iwate Prefecture.
Thanks to its exceptionally high urushiol content—the main component of lacquer—
Jōbōji lacquer is indispensable not only for lacquerware such as soup bowls, but also for the restoration of National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
It is said that as much as 1.5 tons of Jōbōji lacquer were used in the restoration of Kyoto’s Rokuonji (the Golden Pavilion).
Today, Jōbōji lacquer continues to play an essential role in the “Heisei Grand Restoration” of Nikkō’s Futarasan Shrine, Tōshōgū Shrine, and Rinnōji Temple.
In 2015, the Agency for Cultural Affairs established a policy requiring the use of domestic lacquer for the restoration of National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties.
As a result, the cultural importance and value of Jōbōji lacquer will continue to grow.

“Urushi is the treasure of our homeland.”
This belief is shared by Iwate Prefecture, Ninohe City, and the many people involved in its production.
Together, they work to protect, nurture, and further develop Jōbōji urushi.

Urushi Forests in Autumn

As a deciduous broadleaf tree, urushi turns brilliant shades of red and yellow in autumn, coloring Ninohe’s rich mountain forests with vivid hues.
Lacquer tapping begins in mid-June and gradually comes to an end in October.
Urushi collected during this late season is called *sue-hen*, and is primarily used for undercoating.
Every last drop is carefully harvested, and once the work is complete, the tree has fulfilled its purpose.

Passing Down the Craft

Ninohe City actively recruits individuals from across Japan who aspire to become urushi tappers.
Madoka Nagashima, originally from Saitama Prefecture, is one such trainee.
Although the work takes place in harsh natural conditions, training is carried out in an open environment where master artisans provide warm and attentive guidance.
In 2017, she achieved the remarkable honor of receiving an award at the annual lacquer quality competition.

▼Click here to watch lacquer tapping in Jōbōji▼

Authentic Japanese Lacquer

This is freshly collected urushi.
Although the urushi tree originally comes from warmer regions such as China and India,
those grown in Iwate—considered the northern limit of its natural habitat—grow more slowly.
As a result, their lacquer tends to have a slightly higher hardness.
A single urushi tree yields only about 200 grams—roughly one small milk bottle’s worth.
Each stroke is made with care, and the lacquer is gathered patiently over time.

Specialized Tools

The tools used for lacquer tapping are unique.
From the bucket called a *takappo* to specialized hatchets, sickles, and spatulas, each item has a distinct purpose.
However, the number of blacksmiths capable of making these tools has been decreasing, and urushi tappers now face challenges in obtaining and maintaining them.
Many artisans cherish and carefully use the tools they already have.

A Place for Mutual Improvement

Held every autumn, the Jōbōji Urushi Competition brings together all lacquer harvested in that year for side-by-side evaluation.
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year(2018), the event has long supported the high quality of Jōbōji lacquer.
It is also an important venue where urushi tappers refine their skills through friendly rivalry.

An Unending Cycle

After 8 to 13 years of growth, lacquer trees are harvested using a method called “koroshi-gaki,” in which all the lacquer is collected within a single year, after which the tree is felled.
New shoots then sprout from the stump, and the cycle begins anew.The saplings in the photo are only about 50–70 cm tall.
After the autumn leaves fall, they are covered with straw mats to endure the winter.

In early autumn, sunlight still carrying a hint of summer filtered through the trees, illuminating the broad lacquer grove.
Ninohe City continues to advance the development of Jōbōji lacquer through combined public and private efforts.
Each lacquer tree, extending its branches wide, seemed to embody the steady, dedicated steps of the many people who support this craft.

≪ END ≫