The traditional lipped bowl saké vessel known as the hiagé
has long been part of Joboji lacquer-ware found in Ninohe city, Iwate prefecture. There, the vessel is a symbol of local culture, indispensable in celebratory occasions. Although its shape evolved gradually throughout history, the vessel is still produced today.
While popular in the market, the product was often out of stock due to the difficulty in preparing the unlacquered wooden base. Over the period between April 2016 and Oc- tober 2020, the product was re-designed in order to resolve this problem.
The product was named “Kaku Hai” and released by Jobo- ji Urushi Workshop in March 2018.Designed so that 2 saké cups can be stored in the lipped bowl, it is intended as a set to be enjoyed by 2 people pouring drinks for each other.The product has been improved continually after its release and received the Good Design Award in 2020.
