Woodblock Prints of Kyoto, Chikurindo | Traditional Techniques and the Work of Artisans

Woodblock Prints of Kyoto | Takezasado Special Feature

Kyoto's Traditional Technique "Hand-Carved Woodblock Prints" Continuing for Over 130 Years

Takezasado, a workshop built in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward, has a history of over 130 years as an old woodblock workshop.
Woodblock printing is a traditional printing technique that uses wooden blocks as printing plates, applies paint, and presses it onto Japanese paper. In Japan, it is known as "woodblock printing" and is a culture so close to the people that it even appears in educational settings. The delicate lines and subtle gradations evoke a warmth that machine printing cannot reproduce.

The wooden printing blocks are carved and layered with colors to print. All processes are done by hand, and each print becomes a "one-of-a-kind work in the world."
The texture unique to Japanese paper, the beautiful harmony created by the wooden blocks, and the atmosphere of Kyoto all breathe life into the work.

The Printmaker (Surishi) Brings to Life Japan’s Traditional Beauty

The "printmaker (surishi)" who creates woodblock prints is a professional who carefully adjusts colors, glossiness, and temperature while reading the materials.
They blend the basic pigments, dissolve them in nikawa (animal glue), add moisture to the paper, and print according to the seasons. Using techniques such as kirazuri (mica printing) and bokashi (gradation), they give depth and expression to the paintings.
Each piece is born from the printmaker’s breath and sense of touch. This is precisely the essence of Japan’s traditional craftsmanship.

The Two Woodblock Print Artists Supporting Takezasado

Kenshi Takenaka | Depicting Kyoto with Bold Designs and Colors

Yuko Harada | Sensitivity that Blends Tradition and Modernity

Takezasado’s 26th generation. Using continuous patterns and modern expressions, she explores new possibilities for woodblock printing.
Active in various fields such as illustration and fabric design, she proposes ways to incorporate woodblock printing into contemporary lifestyles.

Kyoto Art Enriched by Tradition

All woodblock prints at Takezasado are hand-carved. Slightly larger than a postcard, their size is perfect for decorating small spaces such as living rooms, corridors, and under staircases.
Displayed in rooms, they create a rich time as if walking through the streets of Kyoto.
They are popular as gifts and are perfect for important occasions such as new house celebrations, weddings, and moving celebrations.

Takezasado: Weaving Tradition and Innovation

Takezasado’s history begins in 1891 with the founding of Kenshin Woodblock Printing.
While inheriting old techniques, the workshop continues to challenge new forms of expression, fascinating many fans.
The creation of woodblock art includes tools, paper products, packaging design, and restoration of old prints, actively applying traditional craftsmanship to modern times.
Not only "preserving tradition" but also "creating new value." The soul of Kyoto’s craftsmanship lives in Takezasado’s woodblock prints.

Meet Kyoto’s Craftsmanship at Fuwa Market

Fuwa Market carefully selects and introduces Takezasado’s hand-carved woodblock prints.
Our mission is to spread the charm of traditional techniques combined with modern design worldwide.
Just by displaying them in your room, you can create a time that feels like traveling through Kyoto.
Why not bring the original "craftsmanship" into the heart of your home?