Kyoto Woodblock Prints | Takezasado Special Collection
Over 130 Years of Continuing Kyoto's Traditional Technique: "Hand-Rubbed Woodblock Prints"
Takezasado, a workshop built in Senbon-cho, Kyoto, has a history exceeding 130 years as an old Kyoto woodblock print workshop.
Woodblock printing is a traditional printing technique that uses wooden blocks as printing plates, applies pigments, and rubs them onto Japanese paper. In Japan, known as "woodblock prints," it is a close cultural art form that even appears in educational settings, and its delicate lines and subtle gradations evoke a warmth that machine printing cannot replicate.
The wooden printing blocks are carved, and colors are layered and rubbed. All processes are performed by hand, making each print a "one-of-a-kind work in the world."
The texture of the Japanese paper, the excellent harmony created by the wooden blocks, and the atmosphere of Kyoto breathe life into the works.
The "Hand-Rubber" Who Brings to Life Japan's Traditional Beauty
The "Hand-Rubber" who finishes woodblock prints is a craftsman who finely adjusts colors, moisture, and temperature while reading them carefully.
They mix basic pigments, dissolve them with nikawa (animal glue), add moisture to the paper, and rub according to the season. Using techniques such as kirazuri (mica printing) and bokashi (gradation), they give depth and expression to the prints.
Each work is born from the craftsman's breath and touch. This is truly a branch of Japan's traditional craftsmanship.
Two Woodblock Print Artists Supporting Takezasado
Kenshi Takenaka | Depicting Kyoto with Bold Compositions and Colors
Yuko Harada | Sensitivity That Blends Tradition and Modernity
Takezasado's 26th generation. Utilizing continuous patterns and modern expressions, she is expanding new possibilities for woodblock prints.
Active in various fields such as illustration and fabric design, she proposes ways to incorporate woodblock prints into contemporary life.
Kyoto Art Enriched by Gradations
All Takezasado woodblock prints are hand-rubbed. Slightly larger than a postcard in size, they have a charm that makes them easy to decorate small spaces such as living rooms, corridors, and under eaves.
If displayed in a room, they create a rich time as if walking through the streets of Kyoto.
They are also popular as gifts, such as for housewarmings, weddings, and moving celebrations, cherished for their heartfelt appeal.
Takezasado Weaving Tradition and Innovation
Takezasado's history begins in 1891 with the founding by Kenshi Takenaka.
While inheriting old techniques, the workshop continues to challenge new expressions, captivating many fans.
Takezasado is actively developing activities that bring traditional craftsmanship into modern times, including artworks, stationery, paper products, package design, and restoration of old prints.
Not only "preserving tradition" but also "creating new value"—such is the spirit of Kyoto craftsmanship embodied in Takezasado's woodblock prints.
Meet Kyoto’s Craftsmanship at Fuwa Market
At Fuwa Market, we carefully select and introduce Takezasado’s hand-rubbed woodblock prints.
Our mission is to spread the charm of traditional techniques × modern design worldwide.
Just by decorating your room, you can create a time that feels like traveling through Kyoto.
Would you like to bring the genuine "craftsmanship" into the heart of your daily life?
