Nushiya Ichimatsu
About Company
Layered with care. Made to be renewed.
Wajima lacquerware for everyday life.
Nushiya Ichimatsu is a third-generation Wajima lacquerware workshop in Ishikawa, Japan. It manages every stage of lacquer application in its own workshop, from the foundation layers to the final coat. Its work spans everyday tableware, pieces for restaurants, and repairs, with a close connection to the people who use its products.
Connecting craft with the people who use it
A nushiya does more than apply lacquer. The role also involves understanding a customer’s needs and coordinating with specialists in wooden bases and decorative finishes. At Ichimatsu, this approach has passed from second-generation artisan Haruo Ichimatsu to third-generation head Satoshi Ichimatsu.
Through its Wajima workshop and its own shop, Nushiya Urushinoki in Kanazawa, Ichimatsu brings together making, retail, and repairs that help keep lacquerware in use.
Every lacquer layer, managed in one workshop
Ichimatsu keeps the entire lacquering process under one roof, from preparing the foundation to applying the final coat. This allows the workshop to maintain a consistent vision for each piece, giving as much attention to the layers beneath the surface as to the visible finish.
Everyday tableware and HATOH, inspired by the sea
ICHIMATSU
The collection includes bowls in a range of sizes, including the traditional gōroku style, as well as mugs, sake cups, tea saucers, plates, and trays. Each brings Wajima lacquerware into the daily rituals of dining, tea, and sake.
ICHIMATSU HATOH
HATOH takes its inspiration from the powerful waves and sea foam of Noto’s winter coastline. Gold leaf is applied over layers of lacquer, then finished with Ichimatsu’s own blend of shuai lacquer. The colors gradually evolve with use, giving each piece a changing character.
Images: Nushiya Ichimatsu, official product collection
Haruo Ichimatsu: a life in lacquer
Haruo Ichimatsu, the workshop’s second-generation artisan, joined the family lacquerware business after working as an automotive mechanic. In 1996, he opened Nushiya Urushinoki in Kanazawa’s Kazue-machi district. Alongside making new pieces, he has devoted his lacquer skills to repairing and restoring cherished tableware.
Today, third-generation head Satoshi Ichimatsu continues the nushiya’s role, bringing customers’ needs into both new commissions and repair work.
Tableware for restaurants. Repairs for lasting use.
Ichimatsu produces tableware for restaurants, including bespoke pieces tailored to a particular setting or cuisine. Working with clients on form and function, the workshop develops Wajima lacquerware suited to the way food is served and enjoyed.
The workshop also offers repair, refinishing, and reworking services, assessing each piece according to its condition, from damage to a dulled surface. Making and mending are complementary parts of its work, helping customers continue using the lacquerware they value.
Further Reading in English
PECOLO PREMIUM PRODUCTS × Ichimatsu
PECOLO introduces its collaboration with Ichimatsu, bringing Wajima lacquerwork to pet dining accessories. This English-language feature from the collaborating brand explores the workshop’s approach and the lacquer and gold-leaf finishes developed for the collection.
Explore the collaboration →The People and Craft Behind Ichimatsu
The workshop’s official English website introduces its family history, Haruo Ichimatsu’s work, its approach to lacquering, and its repair services. A useful starting point for learning more about the people and processes behind its lacquerware.
Read the workshop profile →Workshop Information
| Name | Nushiya Ichimatsu |
|---|---|
| Head of Workshop | Satoshi Ichimatsu, third generation |
| Workshop | 37-4 Nagaguchi, Chudamachi, Wajima, Ishikawa 928-0041, Japan |
| Shop | Nushiya Urushinoki 1-3-10 Kannonmachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-0831, Japan |
| Services | Wajima lacquerware design, production, and retail; restaurant tableware and bespoke commissions; lacquerware repair, refinishing, and reworking |
| Products | Bowls, cups, sake vessels, tea saucers, plates, trays, chopsticks, and the ICHIMATSU HATOH collection |
| Website & Social Media |
Addresses are as listed on the official website. Please contact the business before visiting the shop or workshop.
