New Launch: Tradition Meets Functionality! Introducing the 'Maden Bamboo Onsen Kago (Yukago) with Legs'

Taketora, a specialized bamboo manufacturer operating as Yamagishi Takezai-ten, which has been beloved by customers since its founding in 1894 (Meiji 27) as a wholesaler of bamboo materials and products, has launched a new 'Maden Bamboo Onsen Kago (Yukago) with Legs.' This product preserves the nostalgic charm and presence of traditional bath baskets long cherished at onsen retreats, while enhancing functionality by adding three legs to the base. Designed to address the inconvenience of contents getting wet when the basket is placed directly on damp bathroom floors, the design retains the beauty of traditional bamboo weaving. The onsen kago is a bamboo basket traditionally used at hot spring resorts. In recent years, as more people bring their favorite shampoos and body soaps to enjoy public baths and onsen, these baskets have gained attention not only as practical items but also as nostalgic lifestyle tools. The newly launched 'Maden Bamboo Onsen Kago (Yukago) with Legs' is a bamboo basket refined with the artisan's touch. Bathrooms are often wet, making it inconvenient to place baskets directly on the floor. By adding a tripod to the base, the main body is slightly elevated, preventing contents from getting wet. This is a modern upgrade that preserves the classic charm of traditional onsen baskets while adapting to contemporary bathing styles. The body is crafted from domestically sourced madake bamboo, using a traditional weaving technique that combines wide and ultra-fine bamboo strips. Each weave is meticulously crafted, resulting in a visually pleasing pattern that is both durable and lightweight. The interplay of light and shadow created by the bamboo strips gives the basket a unique natural texture that deepens in character with use. The handle also features meticulous craftsmanship. The single handle is positioned so that the bamboo node sits precisely at the center, and the backside is carefully sanded for a comfortable grip. It fits naturally in the hand, allowing users to feel the warmth unique to bamboo. Moreover, bamboo nails—rather than metal fittings—are used to connect the handle to the body. The rim is also carefully finished, highlighting the charm of bamboo crafts made entirely from natural materials. Every detail reflects the artisan's skill and experience, creating a piece that grows more beloved with continued use. The bottom features the traditional 'kiku-zoko-ami' (chrysanthemum bottom weave) technique, named for its resemblance to a chrysanthemum flower. This beautiful woven pattern can be appreciated from inside the basket, fully showcasing the appeal of bamboo craftsmanship. Additionally, the tripod legs, split into a half-moon shape, utilize bamboo nodes to enhance strength. They ensure good ventilation, making the basket comfortable to use not only in onsen washing areas but also at home. While ideal as an onsen basket, it can also serve as a shopping basket bag when paired with a furoshiki cloth or drawstring pouch. As a piece that combines the beauty of bamboo weaving with functionality, it is recommended not only for onsen enthusiasts but also for those who enjoy incorporating natural materials into their daily lives. This exquisite item, embodying the charm of Japanese onsen culture and bamboo craftsmanship, is a must-have. We invite you to visit the Taketora website—the specialist shop for tiger-striped bamboo—today. [Video] Master Craftsperson at Work: The Making of a Traditional Bamboo Onsen Basket Maden Bamboo Onsen Kago (Yukago) with Legs Price: 13,200 JPY (tax included) https://www.taketora.co.jp/c/takekago/sa00903