Zohiko Lacquer Shop

Went to this Exquisite shop Twice,the first day I bought a Matsukuizuru Korin ( lacquered box with pine cranes) for my parents and a Kiku-Kakitsume sake cup (sake cup with chrysanthemum drawn in gold)for myself. I saw a Natsume (Tea ceremony matcha container) with absolutely mesmerizing green/blueish lacquer tones that I really loved but I thought the price was a bit too steep. I went to bed thinking of that Natsume, how beautiful it was, a timeless unique piece with no other made, so I decided to return the next day and bought it I don't regret it in the slightest. The shop is beautiful. The staff are really attentive they cater to all your needs, explain everything, every detail of the making process of each piece. They have beautiful lacquer ware at many price points so you probably won't leave the shop empty-handed, and even if you don't buy anything its still worth to visit this shop.

Beautiful lacquerware. Great staff. They spoke pretty great English, shockingly good, and were helpful without being intrusive or pushy. The lady helping me seemed to glide in at the right times to explain the history behind a piece, or pull out pieces not on display when it was clear I was looking for something similar but in a different size. I never felt pressured to buy a single thing, and I think they would’ve treated me as kindly if I was just there to browse. They pack really well. The larger boxes got bubble wrap on top of the multi-layer packaging. I forgot to take images in store, so instead I included a picture of one of the smaller boxes, a free catalogue, and some chopsticks I picked up which was the only thing I felt comfortable unwrapping right now. While most of the reviews correctly note it’s expensive, it’s a lot less than I expected. Most of the Japanese urushiware I’ve previously purchased cost a lot more. So there’s a pretty decent value proposition if you’re into lacquerware already. I’m not going to pretend it’s cheap, but it’ll last a lifetime. The shop has been using the same cash/credit card tray for 40 years and it looks phenomenal, so when it’s a plate you’ll take care of yourself, it’ll no doubt look gorgeous for decades.

Look no further, you’ve found **the** Urushi shop in Kyoto. Incredibly beautiful items, helpful and kind staff, and an overall excellent experience. Would absolutely plan another trip to Kyoto, in large part just to get to visit the Zohiko shop again!

Wonderful laquerware store that has been open for hundreds of years. Staff are so kind and helpful. We got a beautiful decorative plate that we absolutely love. So happy I happened upon this shop. Thank you!

This store has a stunning collection of lacquerware products. They offer a wide selection of product types. The staff was very helpful and attentive.

Zohiko is one of the best brands in Japan for lacquering and decorating bamboo products. It is certainly expensive but if you have the opportunity to visit this store you will understand why. It has a history that dates back to 1661 until today. We bought 3 sakè cups and a tray. Wonderful and well-made products. Very recommended, even just to see the beauty and quality of the products they have. Furthermore, the staff is very welcoming, thoughtful, kind and ready to answer any questions or curiosities.

This is a perfect place to pick up a really special souvenir. The shop specialises in lacquerware, and has a wide variety of items, like sake cups (A different design for each month), bowls, plates, trays, bento boxes and jewellery boxes. All of the items were handmade, which made every one a little bit unique. Even the smallest items are a bit pricey, but the craftsmanship poured into them make it worth every Yen. The staff were all very kind and happy to explain some of the items to me.

Gorgeous lacquerware in the most elegant shop. The loveliest service too, with wonderful care and guidance. This is really the perfect place to find a special keepsake or gift from Kyoto (at any price range, from quite affordable to prices you’d spend for a family heirloom). A special experience to visit that I’d highly recommend!