Cherry Bark Craftsman (Sakura Bark Craft)
かばざいくこう（おうひざいく）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who creates crafts such as vessels and decorative items using the bark of mountain cherry trees. Requires manual skills utilizing the properties of natural materials and finishing techniques such as lacquer coating.
Description
Cherry bark craftsmen (sakura bark craft) are artisans who produce crafts such as flower vases, trays, boxes, and decorative small items using sakura bark peeled from mountain cherry trees. Sakura bark is thin and flexible yet strong, so it is cut with blades, adhered or sewn to form shapes. Joints are sewn with hemp thread or adhered and coated with lacquer to enhance waterproofing and aesthetics. Additionally, knowledge of wood, drying management, and lacquer coating techniques are required to handle the drying and shrinkage of natural materials. They inherit techniques as a traditional industry while developing designs suited to modern lifestyles.
Future Outlook
Successor shortage and aging are challenges, but demand for traditional crafts is strong both domestically and internationally, with potential in tourism and interior markets. Market expansion is expected through the introduction of new designs and processing techniques.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands, good at detailed work / Excellent aesthetic sense / High concentration / Patient
Work Style
Consignment Sales / Exhibition Participation / Made-to-Order Production / Sole Proprietor / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Craftsman → Craftsman/Workshop Member → Traditional Craftsman Certification → Independent/Workshop Establishment → Class Instructor
Required Skills
Blade Operation / Joining Techniques / Lacquer Coating (Base Preparation) / Sakura Bark Processing
Recommended Skills
Design / Drying and Humidification Management Techniques / Knowledge of Wood and Natural Materials / SNS Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high precision is required in handling fine bark and sewing operations. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because designs and shapes that leverage the material's properties are required. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Primarily focused on work, so interpersonal communication is not particularly necessary. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | There is dimension calculation, but no need for complex mathematical analysis. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly small-scale work with little team collaboration. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman
- Woodworking Technician
Aliases
- Sakura Bark Artisan
- Sakura Bark Craftsman
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- Lacquerware Manufacturer
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