About Odate Magewappa
Odate magewappa are round bentwood containers made from thin, bent sheets of Akita cedar, produced in Odate City, Akita Prefecture. Said to have originated in 1689 when the chief retainer of the Odate castle lord encouraged lower-ranking samurai to make them as a side business. Characterized by thinly shaved, pliable Akita cedar bent after soaking in hot water and sewn together with mountain cherry bark. Highly popular as lunchboxes for their cedar fragrance, moisture retention, and breathability.
Techniques & Materials
Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.
Techniques
薄板削り湯曲げ山桜皮縫い漆仕上げ（一部）
Materials
秋田杉山桜の皮
Where to see & buy
Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.
- 柴田慶信商店 hands-on experience