Tsugaru Nuri is the name given to the kind of lacquerware produced in the area around the ancient castle town of Hirosaki, Aomori, Northern Japan. Tsugaru Nuri as we know it today first began to be produced at the end of the 17th century when local craftsman Ikeda Genbei returned from Edo having studied traditional lacquering techniques. There are a variety of characteristic designs, all created by a lengthy hand-made process. Layer upon layer of colored lacquer are applied over a base pattern, with each layer being carefully dried. The result is a richly detailed pattern, full of depth, with a glossy sheen. Tsugaru Nuri items are designed for everyday use. Carefully looked after, these pieces will provide years of enjoyment, growing in character and gaining more depth and luminosity. Kara Nuri is the name given to the design created by the use of a perforated wooden tool. This creates the initial pattern which is then coated with layers of lacquer.