Certifications
- Certified Stone of Fukui (J.G.S.)
－ 2014 - Certified Japan Heritage (ACA)
－ 2019
Shakudani Stone
-
-
Beautiful Blue stone born in Fukui
Shakudani stone is a volcanic tuff formed from ash that solidified during volcanic activity 16 million years ago.
It is mainly quarried in the Asuwa area of Fukui Prefecture. The name "Shakudani" comes from the Shakudani district on the north, where the stone quality was particularly high.
Additionally, it is known as "blue stone" because it turns a deep blue when wet. The finest quality is considered to be light blue with a fine texture. -
Shakudani Stone – A witness of Fukui History
The history of Shakudani stone in Fukui dates back about 1,500 years. While it disappeared from records for a time, it reemerged in around 1,000 years. It was used for intricately carved stone pagodas and stone sculptures.
In 16th century, the Asakura clan, who ruled Echizen Province, used Shakudani stone extensively. Many stone artifacts,have been excavated from the Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins in Fukui.Later Shakudani stone played a vital role in castle construction, serving as foundations and stone walls. -
Shakudani Stone Quarry Ruins
-
Hokusai Katsushika
-
Furthermore, Shakudani stone was widely distributed through the Kitamae trading ships, which played a key role in maritime transport along the Sea of Japan. It was shipped to various ports and regions, including Otaru in Hokkaido (warehouse foundation and paving stones), the Tsugaru in Aomori (stone mausoleum), and Takaoka (foundation stones as well as the stone mausoleum at the national treasure Zuiryu-ji Temple).
-
"Reviving Shakudani Stone, Fukui Gem"
Shakudani Stone is No Longer Quarried
Today, Shakudani stone is no longer being quarried. As a result, this stone is fading from people’s mind. To preserve Fukui’s unique stone culture for future generations, the "Reviving Shakudani Stone, Fukui Gem" series was born.
We collect Shakudani stone that has been left in old houses across the prefecture and give it new life as elegant tableware.
We hope this revitalized Shakudani stone will once again become part of daily life and be cherished for generations to come. -
-
-
Development Background
With a strong passion to preserve Fukui’s history and culture for future generations, and a deep connection to Shakudani stone as Castle roof construction company, we began developing modern tableware.
Now, this project has finally been launched.
The name "Reviving Shakudani Stone, Fukui Gem" was given by the Mayor of Fukui.
The calligraphy for the product name was written by Saburo Toyota, a painter who is over 100 years old.
Fukui Gem Fukui Blue
This handcrafted tableware is made from Echizen blue stone, a rare and precious stone discovered by Emperor Keitai. This stone, one of the oldest in Japan, will never be quarried again. The deep blue base, speckled with small multicolored stones, enhances the natural beauty of its color.
The vibrant hues delight the eyes, the calming blue soothes the heart, and the smooth texture offers a gentle touch. It is astonishingly lightweight, retains a cool temperature due to its permeability, and maintains moisture well. Additionally, it has excellent heat retention, keeping warm dishes warm for longer. "Fukui Blue" now brings that beauty closer to you.
-
We have repurposed pieces that were once used in architecture, giving them new life as tableware. While ceramic is common, "Fukui blue" is crafted from pure natural stone. One of its unique features is its color transformation when wet—an experience to be enjoyed. Some pieces even use stone that was originally used in buildings 100 years ago.
Our product lineup includes chopsticks, teacups, sake cups, beer mugs, soba bowls, water basins (for flowers), and tea utensils. Among them, the chopsticks are particularly special—they combine wood and Shakudani stone, inspired by Tsukumo Bridge, which was built using both wood and stone. This design integrates the traditional Wakasa lacquerware, creating a unique and refined piece. -
