Meet The Artisan: Tatehiro Kubo
Preserving a 500-Year Family Legacy of Chasen Whisk Artistry
「久保建裕」
Tatehiro Kubo, a dedicated Chasen Whisk Artisan, hails from a long line of craftsmen dating back to the Muromachi Period. Based in Nara, the whisks are produced in a small town in Takayama, also known as “the village that never sleeps," populated with Artisans like Kubo who devote themselves day and night in perfecting their craft.
These Chasen whisks are meticulously handcrafted, each unique piece is a labor of love. Kubo’s family can only produce up to 20 whisks a day, highlighting the rarity and reverence of these exclusive treasures.
For Kubo's family, joy is found in the art of whisk-making. They believe that each bamboo possesses its own personality, making the process engaging and delightful. From the initial steps of cutting the bamboo to the final touch of threading, the human hand is crucial in every stage of craftsmanship, emphasizing the power of the human touch in every Chasen whisk.
Reflecting on Japan’s cultural evolution from a community of farmers and artisans to a landscape now dominated by salarymen, Kubo feels grateful to be in the position to carry forward this rich legacy. Despite the allure of mainstream professions, he chose to continue the whisk business to ensure the tradition perseveres.
Recognizing the profound cultural significance of Chasen whisks in Japanese tea ceremonies, Kubo's ikigai is to see the Sado tradition thrive. His vision extends globally, aiming to introduce foreigners to Japanese culture through the art of Chasen whisks.
By sharing the depth of Japanese history and the intricate whisk-making process with customers worldwide, Kubo hopes to spark a deeper understanding and appreciation for this transient yet timeless tradition of Chasen whisk craftsmanship.
These Chasen whisks are meticulously handcrafted, each unique piece is a labor of love. Kubo’s family can only produce up to 20 whisks a day, highlighting the rarity and reverence of these exclusive treasures.
For Kubo's family, joy is found in the art of whisk-making. They believe that each bamboo possesses its own personality, making the process engaging and delightful. From the initial steps of cutting the bamboo to the final touch of threading, the human hand is crucial in every stage of craftsmanship, emphasizing the power of the human touch in every Chasen whisk.
Reflecting on Japan’s cultural evolution from a community of farmers and artisans to a landscape now dominated by salarymen, Kubo feels grateful to be in the position to carry forward this rich legacy. Despite the allure of mainstream professions, he chose to continue the whisk business to ensure the tradition perseveres. Recognizing the profound cultural significance of Chasen whisks in Japanese tea ceremonies, Kubo's ikigai is to see the Sado tradition thrive. His vision extends globally, aiming to introduce foreigners to Japanese culture through the art of Chasen whisks.
By sharing the depth of Japanese history and the intricate whisk-making process with customers worldwide, Kubo hopes to spark a deeper understanding and appreciation for this transient yet timeless tradition of Chasen whisk craftsmanship.
Care Guide
- To wash Chasen Whisk, gently rinse under warm water.
- Hand-pick any residue that can be removed.
- No soap is required - simply cleanse and purify the delicate bamboo with your two hands.
- Wipe the whisk dry by using a chasen stand.
- Store in a place with a dry-cool temperature.
Ratings and Reviews
