Kajitsu - Information

"Chopsticks from Kyoto: Design and Form of Japanese Chopsticks from the Edo Period to the Present” An Exhibition of Japanese Chopsticks Date: November 3 – November 8, 2009 Time: 12pm – 3pm Place: Kajitsu Restaurant @ 414 E 9th Street, New York, NY 10009 Contact: 212-228-4873 Kajitsu presents an exhibition “Chopsticks from Kyoto: Design and Form of Japanese Chopsticks from the Edo Period to the Present” from November 3 to 8. This exhibition features a collection of traditional Kyoto style chopsticks produced by “Ichihara Heibei Shōten,” the oldest chopstick maker in Japan. *During the exhibition hours, Kajitsu will be open for tea.
ICHIHARA HEIBEI SHŌTEN Ichihara Heibei Shōten, established in 1764, is the oldest chopstick maker in Japan, which used to supply the Imperial Court, the Royal Family of Japan, and oldest shrines and temples in Kyoto. This venerable chopstick maker has a tradition that has been practiced by every generation: a new generation owner has to develop a new form of chopsticks. Following his family tradition, the eighth generation owner, Takashi Ichihara, has invented “Heian Bashi,” chopsticks with fine tips and smooth lacquer texture, which are made with firm young bamboo for durability. Takashi says, “Chopsticks do change the taste of food.” Understandably, Ichihara’s clientele includes the top Kaiseki restaurants in Kyoto.