Woodcraft - His and Hers Handcrafted Ainu Chopsticks

The motifs on this humble chopsticks are deeply symbolic of Ainu beliefs and folklore. The Ainu believe that every tree has a spirit; this deep reverence for nature and the animals that inhabit their world is reflected through the medium of woodcarving.

Made using Japanese cedar, which ages beautifully, developing a patina over time. Owning a pair of chopsticks like this offers a quite connection to the wild forests of Hokkaido and honouring the traditions of it’s indigenous people.

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Product Story

"Konichiwa", the staff behind the desk at Aomori's ferry terminal greet us with typical Japanese alacrity. It's 7 a.m. and we feel utterly exhausted. Having driven over 700km from Tokyo's Narita airport over the past couple of days to make it this far, it is perhaps inevitable.

• Read about the process of hand carving these exquisite items