What is Okawa Furniture?

Okawa Furniture originates from Okawa City in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan's leading center for furniture production with an impressive 470-year history. Known for its precision craftsmanship, Okawa Furniture has earned the distinction of being Japan's top furniture-producing area. This legacy of artisanal skill reflects a deep-rooted tradition that began in the 16th century, evolving through generations to deliver furniture that combines historical reverence with timeless quality.

The Origins and Evolution of Okawa Furniture

16th Century – The Beginning of Okawa Furniture

In 1536, Enotsu Kumenosuke, a master shipbuilder, applied his woodworking skills to create “sashimono,” a technique of joinery requiring no nails. This marked the birth of “Enotsu Sashimono,” the precursor to Okawa Furniture, rooted in precision and a seamless joinery technique that would be passed down through the centuries.

The Pioneers of Craftsmanship

Enotsu Kumenosuke

A former retainer of the Ashikaga shogunate, Kumenosuke turned to craftsmanship to support the community. His pioneering use of shipbuilding techniques to create wooden furniture laid the foundation for Okawa’s unique approach to furniture-making.

Kasaku Tanojo (1812)

Known as the “Restorer,” Tanojo mastered the art of crafting storage boxes and other furniture types, revitalizing the industry in Okawa and expanding on traditional techniques. His work marked a new era in Okawa's craftsmanship, passing his skills down through generations and inspiring the next waves of artisans.

Okawa Joinery – The Nail-less Tradition

Okawa furniture artisans perfected “Okawa Sashimono,” a style that relies on complex joinery, connecting wood pieces seamlessly without nails. This approach requires skill and precision, creating lasting, high-quality items like chests, boxes, and tables that embody the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.

Okawa Tansu: A Timeless Legacy

In the Meiji Era, Okawa artisans introduced Okawa Tansu—distinctive wardrobes known for their elegant design and functionality. Using cedar, paulownia, and zelkova wood, these wardrobes are characterized by refined finishes, from natural wood to translucent lacquers, and feature meticulously crafted metal fittings. Producing a single Okawa Tansu required expertise from specialists in woodcutting, metalwork, painting, and woodworking, underscoring the collaborative effort that Okawa furniture represents.

Modernization and National Recognition

The industrialization of Japan in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought new opportunities for Okawa furniture. With innovations in machinery and techniques, Okawa craftsmen expanded production, and Okawa furniture gained national acclaim for its sophisticated designs and impeccable quality. Post-World War II, the efforts of industrial designer Ryo Kawachi catalyzed Okawa’s modernization, introducing sleek, functional designs that complemented contemporary lifestyles and earned Okawa Furniture its reputation as an essential component of modern Japanese homes.

Okawa Furniture Today – A Global Reach

Today, Okawa Furniture blends tradition with innovation, embracing sustainable practices while upholding centuries-old craftsmanship. The Okawa Industrial Promotion Center and exhibitions like the International Design Forum continue to highlight Okawa’s commitment to quality and design. With sister city partnerships, such as with Pordenone, Italy, Okawa has also expanded its presence internationally, appealing to discerning clients who appreciate the beauty of Japanese heritage combined with modern aesthetics.

When you welcome Okawa Furniture into your home, you’re inviting a piece of Japan’s artisanal legacy, crafted to bring elegance and durability to any space. Each piece reflects not only 470 years of expertise but also the dedication of artisans who continue to honor and innovate Japan’s furniture-making traditions.