How Paulownia wooden box "Kiribako" are used in Japan

Since the tea ceremony began to spread in Japan about 500 years ago, paulownia wooden boxes called "Kiribako" has been valued for the purpose of protecting tea accessories. Its characteristics such as humidity control, insect resistance, fire resistance, lightness, and minimal distortion made it the most suitable protective box among the many wooden materials.

In addition to the purpose of protection, the box also serves to increase the value of the work by providing proof of the artisan's signature on the box. Even today, antique tea ceremony accessories without Kiribako cannot be bought and sold at high prices.

There is still a custom of having a new kiribako and having the head of the tea ceremony school write an inscription on it (proof of the school's favorite work approved by the head of the school).

Starting with tea ceremony accessories, Kiribako is used as packaging for kimono, dolls, and other traditional crafts as well. Also they are used as gift packages for food, sake, household goods, jewelry, and other items.

Japanese people have a subconscious awareness that a gift in a Kiribako is expensive product.

We can not only produce a kiribako according to the size of the product, but also add Sanada ribbon, hot stamping, foil stamping, silk printing, etc. to create a costumer's original package.

Please refer to how to order and contact us via our cotact form.