The story of Chikuseidō, a bamboo craft workshop, began in 1907, when the first-generation craftsman Kisuke established Tanaka Shōten along the historic Kōshū Kaidō near Shimo-Takaido in Tokyo.
At that time, the road was lined with bamboo workshops, and bamboo tools were deeply woven into everyday life. Bamboo baskets and woven trays were essential household items, valued for both their practicality and their quiet presence within daily living.
As the times changed, so too did people’s way of life. During Japan’s period of rapid economic growth, everyday tools made from natural materials gradually gave way to industrial products. Amid this transformation, the second-generation master, Kiyoshi, sought new forms of expression while building upon the techniques that had been passed down through generations.
A swan crafted in traditional hexagonal weaving and displayed atop the shop roof drew the attention of passersby, leading to the creation of many bamboo sculptural works thereafter. Photographs from the period still preserve the memory of these diverse creations, reflecting the spirit of their time.
Under the third-generation master, Kyokusho, bamboo craftsmanship evolved into an even more refined and sophisticated form of artistic expression. Rooted in traditional techniques while exploring the beauty of materials and the possibilities of form, he continued to challenge himself through the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. Since first exhibiting in his thirties, his works have been selected and awarded continuously for more than four decades.
In recognition of these longstanding achievements, he was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon in 2008 for his contributions to the arts and crafts.
In the spring of 2022, seeking a richer environment for creation, the workshop and gallery relocated from Tokyo to Nagasaka, Hokuto City in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Today, the third-generation master Kyokusho, together with his wife and the fourth-generation craftsman Shigeki, continue the creation of bamboo baskets and artworks there, while Shigeki’s wife hosts classes dedicated to seasonal wildflowers.
For more than a century, Chikuseidō has continued its journey while evolving alongside the changing times. Honoring the techniques and sensibilities handed down through generations, we remain devoted to exploring new expressions in bamboo craftsmanship.
First Generation — Kisuke
Second Generation — Kiyoshi
Third Generation — Kyokusho
Fourth Generation — Shigeki
The works featured on this website were created primarily by the third-generation master, Kyokusho.
The fourth-generation craftsman, Shigeki, has also begun forging his own path. In 2025, he received the Encouragement Award at the 65th Eastern Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition upon his very first participation. View Shigeki’s workshop →here.