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[Kagawa/Sanuki Lacquerware] A single Goto-nuri round tray can transform your dining table when guests arrive

2026年7月13日 05:55

When guests are coming over, are you satisfied with just setting out your usual white plates? Sanuki lacquerware, a traditional craft from Kagawa Prefecture, features a technique called "Goto-nuri," where layers of lacquer are applied to natural wood. A round tray with swirling patterns of glossy vermilion and black can change the atmosphere of your dining table the moment you place a dish on it. Why not incorporate the handiwork of lacquer artisans, which has continued since the Edo period, into your daily life?

*This article contains affiliate links using the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase through these links, the author will receive a certain commission, but this does not affect the selection or evaluation of the products in any way.

The product introduced here is Kagawa Lacquerware Goto-nuri Round Tray 33cm Natural Wood Lacquer-coated Sanuki Lacquerware (¥9,480).

The background of this craft

The origins of Sanuki lacquerware date back to the Takamatsu Domain in the late Edo period. It is said to have begun when Tamakaji Zokoku, a merchant serving the domain, independently researched lacquer techniques from China, Thailand, and Myanmar, establishing various decorative techniques such as Kinma (carved lacquer), Zonsei (polychrome lacquer), and Choshitsu (carved lacquer). The Takamatsu Domain protected and encouraged this lacquer art, and many lacquer artisans were trained in the castle town. "Goto-nuri," which we are focusing on here, is one of the decorative techniques that developed within that lineage. It was designated as a national traditional craft in 1976, and it continues to be made by the hands of artisans today as everyday tools such as trays, bowls, and confectionery containers.

Artisan techniques and dedication

The characteristic of Goto-nuri lies in the process of applying multiple layers of lacquer from the base to the top coat, repeating drying and polishing to bring out a unique swirling pattern. After applying charcoal powder and a rust base to the natural wood, vermilion and black lacquer are layered alternately, and finally, the surface is polished to create a deep luster and three-dimensional pattern. It is not uncommon for it to take several weeks to several months to finish a single tray, including the process in a "lacquer bath" where the lacquer is dried while monitoring the climate and humidity. In contrast to the uniformity of industrial products, the fact that the expression of the pattern differs slightly for each piece is a charm unique to handiwork.

Reason for choosing this product

The reason I chose this round tray is its practical 33cm size and its versatility for both guest use and everyday use. If you combine it with the set of 5 individual plates finished with the same Goto-nuri technique, you can coordinate everything including the serving plates. Also, the 27cm flat plate using the same technique is worth considering as an option for a different size that can also be used as a confectionery container.

I want to use it in these situations

The uses for a round tray are surprisingly wide.

As a serving tray to carry tea sweets or coffee cups when guests arrive
As the centerpiece of the dining table to serve cakes or fruits for birthdays and anniversaries
For daily use as a tray in the entryway or living room to organize keys and small items

Especially during the year-end and New Year holidays or the Obon season when there are many guests, just having one piece of lacquerware that is distinct from your usual tableware can change the impression of your hospitality. The texture, which combines the warmth of wood and the luster of lacquer, easily blends into both Japanese and Western dining tables, and it looks great with not only Japanese sweets but also Western sweets and cheese. Many families keep it on a display shelf out of reach of children's hands and only take it out on special days. The glossy appearance that looks great in photos is also useful as a focal point when posting food on social media.

Care and tips for long-term use

The most important thing in caring for lacquerware is to avoid sudden temperature changes and prolonged exposure to water. The basic washing method is as follows.

After use, wash gently with lukewarm water, a soft sponge, and mild detergent, then immediately wipe off any moisture with a dry cloth
Avoid using dishwashers or microwaves, and do not store in places exposed to direct sunlight for long periods

Please refrain from using abrasive sponges or cleansers, as they can damage the luster of the lacquer. Daily care can be sufficiently handled with mild detergent, so there is no need to go out of your way to purchase specialized cleaners. If handled with care, lacquer will increase in luster the more it is used, growing into a tool that can be used for decades.

Other exquisite items from the same region to consider

As an expansion of the same Goto-nuri technique, a set of 5 floral pattern individual plates (¥4,990) are useful as serving plates for guests. Also, a 27cm flat plate confectionery dish (¥6,990) can be used to serve main sweets or fruit, and a small round tray (¥6,990) is a size smaller and can even be used as a tea saucer for one person.

Points to consider when choosing gifts or for anniversaries

When choosing lacquerware as a gift, you are less likely to go wrong if you are conscious of the balance between practicality and a sense of luxury. Tools like round trays that are "usable every day but not everyday items" are favored as gifts for milestones such as weddings, retirements, and 60th birthdays. It is also a good idea to consider the size of the recipient's dining table and the frequency of guests, and choose a size that is not too large. Choosing a product that comes in a paulownia box or a dedicated storage box naturally adds to its status as a gift. Choosing a shop that offers name engraving or message cards will make the gift feel even more heartfelt.

Summary

The Goto-nuri round tray is a piece that encapsulates the history of Kagawa lacquer art and the craftsmanship of artisans. If you want to add a little bit of luxury to your daily dining table, please take a look.

The Goto-nuri round tray introduced this time is a piece that allows you to savor the history of Kagawa lacquer art at your dining table. If you are interested, please check out the product page.

If you found this article helpful, please follow us. Next time, we plan to introduce ironware or glass crafts. Stay tuned.

*This article contains affiliate links using the Amazon Associates Program. If you purchase through these links, the author will receive a certain commission, but this does not affect the selection or evaluation of the products in any way.