Kurikyu was established in Odate in 1874. It is currently run by the 6th generation of the family, 

Their artworks translate into simplicity, elegance and natural beauty, by combining the authentic Akita cedar with the finishing touch of Sakura cherry bark ( - another Akita specialty craft called Kabazaiku). Kurikyu products carry the ‘Traditional License’ awarded by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to separate high-quality craftwork from industrialized mass production, and the Traditional Crafts of Japan Design award that goes with it. 

They also won the Good Design Award, by the Ministry of International Trade, who next to beauty, also focused on quality, safety, functionality and consideration for the environment.