NOUSAKU

TOYAMA

Founded in 1609 by Toshinaga Maeda, lord of the Kaga Clan in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture. Takaoka City has flourished and built a reputation as a fine center of industry for over 400-years. Between 1609 and 1611, seven “imoji” (metalworkers) were stationed at what is now Kanaya-machi, marking the historical beginnings of Takaoka Copper.

Later adding tableware, interior products, and construction metals to its lineup, in 1916 NOUSAKU began manufacturing Buddhist altar fittings, tea sets and flower vases. Despite the deceptively simple appearance of some of these items, the manufacturing process often requires multiple steps. For instance, the fine appearance of their wind-bells as well as tableware is due to the advanced casting and refined finishing techniques of master craftsmen.

Along with established casting methods, a manufacturing process involving the pouring of molten metal into a mold with a hollow cavity of the desired shape and allowing it to solidify, NOUSAKU has developed specialist silicon moulds. Both traditional and more recent innovative techniques are being constantly enhanced to ensure a superb finish is achieved every time.

While continuing to preserve the original values of Takaoka Copper, NOUSAKU pursue innovative challenges by pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Along with the aid of machinery, innovative industrial technology and the cultivated wisdom of past masters, NOUSAKU has a flexible staffing policy and a local network of craftsmen, which enables the use of resources effectively for research and the process of refinement.

Nousaku's mission is not only to explore opportunities and the meaning of handicrafts for future generations, but also to clarify the social significance in a civilised consumer society. Handed down and rooted in Takaoka, they will preserve and innovate the rich heritage of their ancestors.