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Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection
MASU

Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection

NEW
Sale price$200 USD


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Styles:4 Inches 4 Step
In stock

The Yosegi Zaiku Handcrafted Puzzle Box Collection is a stunning expression of Japan’s centuries-old marquetry craft.  Each box is inlaid with intricate mosaic patterns made entirely from natural wood, featuring the warmth and beauty of over 50 carefully selected hardwoods.

Known as himitsu bako, or “secret boxes,” each piece conceals its opening mechanism through a precise sequence of sliding movements. The more steps required, the more intricate the puzzle and the more rewarding the discovery. A detailed instruction manual is included with every box for guidance and safekeeping.

Traditional Yosegi motifs, such as asanoha (representing growth) and kikko (symbolizing longevity), are seamlessly integrated into each surface, offering visual harmony and symbolic meaning. These puzzle boxes make for a refined gift, a unique display piece, or a cherished personal keepsake.

Handcrafted in Japan by Yamanaka Works, each box is a work of enduring artistry, functional, symbolic, and quietly wondrous.

• Origin: Made in Japan

• Craft: Yosegi

• Product:
1x Puzzle Box

Handcrafted in Japan with traditional ceramic-making methods, each with a unique design and texture. 

What is Yosegi Zaiku (寄木細工)?

Yosegi Zaiku (寄木細工) is a traditional craft originating from Hakone (箱根), Japan, with over 200 years of history.
It was first established during the late Edo period by Ishikawa Hyōei (石川兵衛, 1790–1850) in Hatajuku (畑宿), Hakone.

This intricate woodworking art demands endless patience and meticulous attention to detail.
Each piece is created through the wisdom and skilled hands of master artisans.

Due to its exceptional complexity and refined craftsmanship, Yosegi Zaiku was officially designated a traditional craft product by the Minister of International Trade and Industry in 1984.

Today, it stands as a proud symbol of Kanagawa (神奈川)’s regional artistry and one of Japan’s most iconic handcrafted gift traditions.

Elaborate Craftsmanship

With over 200 years of history, Yosegi Zaiku (寄木細工) is one of Hakone (箱根)’s most representative traditional crafts.

To create a single piece, artisans typically use more than 50 different types of wood.
Each design requires careful planning and exacting technique.
Tiny wooden pieces are cut precisely and joined seamlessly to form intricate geometric patterns.

These wooden mosaics are then shaved into ultra-thin sheets, soft and flexible like paper.
The final product displays crisp, continuous motifs with no visible seams.

Timeless Motifs of Yosegi Zaiku

Each puzzle box features traditional patterns symbolizing harmony, protection, and nature. Crafted entirely from natural wood pieces, these motifs are joined seamlessly without any dyes, reflecting centuries of artistry.

Patterns include:
Rokkaku Asanoha (六角麻の葉), Aoshi Seigaiha (青海波), Shippo Binba (七宝矢羽),
Sayagata (紗綾形), Musubi Hokei (結び方形), Kakushimoyo (隠し模様)

The Yosegi Zaiku Crafting Process

Yosegi Zaiku (寄木細工) is crafted through a meticulous seven-step process using only natural, undyed wood. Artisans begin by selecting various types of wood, then hand-cut each piece according to intricate design templates. These are glued into precise pattern units and assembled into a solid mosaic block. The block is then shaved into ultra-thin sheets, which are carefully applied to the surface of the box to complete the work. Each step reflects harmony, precision, and the timeless spirit of traditional craftsmanship.