TOMIOKA Traditional Japanese Cherry Bark Tea Container "Sokawa"

This is the classic version of the cherry bark tea container typical for Akita prefecture in Northern Japan. A wooden core is being covered with cherry bark. The cherry bark is impermeable and protects the tea inside the box from air and humidity. These kind of tea boxes have been used in Japan since many centuries.

Kabazaiku is a uniquely Japanese art form that used the national tree, Sakura, and turns its bark into beautiful, long lasting products. There are about five companies remaining who still master the traditional, complex art form that was passed down from generation to generation. One of these companies is TOMIOKA SHOTEN.