Lacquer Cup

Updated at 2022-04-25

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The red and black tableware we often see in Japanese restaurants is one of Japan's most iconic products - lacquerware! Japanese lacquerware originated from China, where lacquer was refined from the sap of Chinese lacquer trees. Over time, Japanese craftsmanship surpassed that of China, and Japanese lacquerware evolved into a unique style different from the cheap plastic tableware found in supermarkets. Traditional Japanese lacquerware is highly durable, and the sheen of Japan-made lacquerware can last over a hundred years. Different lacquerware characteristics can be found in different regions of Japan. For example, Odawara lacquerware emphasizes the underlying wood textures, and Kagawa is famous for its lacquered bamboo baskets. However, Wajima City in the Ishikawa Prefecture is unanimously recognized as the birthplace of Japanese lacquerware. Japanese lacquerware is a key intangible cultural asset of Japan.

Details

Name

Lacquer Cup

Giver

Former Rep. Yukio Jitsukawa

Friendly States

Japan

Flag: The flag of Japan is known as the "Flag of Sun," a red disc centered on a white rectangular banner). The ratio of the flag is 2:3, and the diameter of the red disk is three-fifths of the vertical length, with the center of the red disk aligned with the center of the flag.
National Day: February 11
Language: Japanese
Capital: Tokyo
Area: 377,973 square kilometers
Population: Approx. 123 million people
Currency: Japanese Yen
Government: Constitutional monarchy, separation of powers