We begin 2024 with healing wishes and a fundraiser for those affected by the New Year's Day earthquake on Japan's western coast. Particularly hard hit was the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture. Located here is the city of Wajima, home to one of Japan's premier lacquer ware industries, Wajima-nuri. The reqion is also home to many other traditional crafts such as wood working, paper making, textile weaving and dyeing, and ceramics, in addition to a vibrant and important fishing & farming community. Many craftspeople were affected and numerous ateliers with histories of 100, 200, and 300+ years were destroyed.
From now, through March 1, 20% of the sales of all Teas and select Ceramic items will be donated directly to the City of Wajima, in Ishikawa Prefecture.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or information on how to donate directly.
Best wishes to all for a Healthy & Happy, Peaceful & Prosperous New Year of the Dragon.
Tatsuo Tomeoka