What We Want to Preserve: Nukadoko
To leave "shizuku" (droplets) for the future of our children
In Kamiyama Town, Tokushima Prefecture, the river water has decreased to about 30% of what it was 30 years ago.The Kamiyama Shizuku Project started with the aim of restoring river flow by thinning overgrown cedar trees to enhance the mountain's water retention capacity, and to find new uses for cedar.
Using or gifting SHIZQ products is a supporter action that contributes to the conservation of "water" in Kamiyama Town.
So that we can leave as many "shizuku" (droplets) as possible for the children of the future.
And so that this small effort becomes a single "droplet" that eventually creates a large ripple.
Urushi (lacquer) is the sap of the lacquer tree.
It is a precious natural gift, with only about one milk bottle's worth of sap collected from a mature tree aged 10-15 years. Planting and nurturing trees, and then collecting their sap.
If this cycle is not broken, lacquer will not run out.
However, the situation has changed dramatically.
As people sought cheaper, faster, and more convenient items, lacquer and traditional crafts disappeared from daily life. Even after celebrating its 100th anniversary, the future 10 years ahead became unimaginable.
The unique lacquer coating, which hardens even with moisture, blends with human skin and develops a rich luster with use. It fosters attachment, encouraging careful use. Even when it becomes worn with use, it can be repaired and passed down through generations.
Respecting ancestors.
Bringing hands together in prayer.
Feeling materials with all five senses.
These were once commonplace aspects of Japanese identity.
Nothing will change if we remain passive. We must also move forward.
In 2016, we started "Urushi no Ippo",
and in the summer of 2019, we encountered the Shizuku Project.
115 years since our founding, the possibilities are expanding.