What is Kyoto Shippo?

Shippo is a general term for metal crafts made by firing glaze onto metal. Due to its unique beauty, the name is said to come from the shippo found in Buddhist scriptures. Kyoto Shippo, in particular, has undergone a unique evolution in tandem with the techniques of metalwork and Kyoto ware, against the backdrop of the Rinpa school that was all the rage from the Muromachi period to the early Edo period. It is a traditional craft that has been nurtured by the times and the land of Kyoto and continues to this day.

The history of Kyoto cloisonné

The oldest example of Japanese cloisonné is thought to be the "Shippo tortoiseshell-shaped cloisonné base" found at Kengyojizuka Kofun, which was made around the 7th or 8th century.

In Kyoto, the popularity of cloisonné is thought to have begun in the 17th century when Hirata Hikoshiro Donin decorated numerous temples and shrines with cloisonné. The technique was then passed on to his apprentices, who applied cloisonné handles, nail covers and other decorations to various places, such as Jurakudai, Katsura Imperial Villa and Honganji Temple, many of which remain today.
It is also believed that when the German sculptor Wagener came to Japan at the end of the Edo period, he developed a transparent glaze, marking the completion of the modern Kyoto cloisonné that continues to this day.

Handling Precautions

Kyo-shippo enamelware may break if subjected to strong force. Please handle it with the same care as you would any glass product. After use, wipe it gently with a soft cloth before storing.

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We sell handmade hairpins (kanzashi), each one carefully crafted to perfection.
We sell original hairpins and collaborative works by artists that can be worn casually with everyday wear or yukata, as well as traditional tortoiseshell hairpins, flower hairpins, and tsumami hairpins that go well with kimonos such as tomesode (long-sleeved kimono), furisode (long-sleeved kimono), and Shichi-Go-San (celebration of Shichi-Go-San). We also carry hair accessories and goods such as hair ties.

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Japan's leading hairpin specialty store

This is Japan's leading hairpin select shop, bringing traditional Japanese ornaments back to life with original designs. We can coordinate the perfect hairpin for any occasion.

Monthly sales reach 20,000 units

We have over 1,500 types of Kanzashi products, from original Kanzashi and collaborative works with other artists to traditional tortoiseshell Kanzashi and flower Kanzashi! We also have directly managed stores and limited edition shops nationwide.

Each piece is handmade by a craftsman

All product planning, design, and manufacturing is done in-house, and each is handmade by artisans. Each Kanzashi has a unique look and is truly one of a kind.