Discover Tosa torafu bamboo from Kōchi Prefecture
Visit the ground floor to discover Tosa torafu bamboo, a rare variety of bamboo that grows exclusively in Kōchi Prefecture, and learn about the craftsmanship behind its transformation into beautifully hand-woven baskets. The display features examples of different types of bamboo, the mutsumeami weaving technique, which forms a hexagonal pattern, and a historic basket once used in sericulture (silkworm farming).
A selection of hand-woven bamboo baskets by Taketora, a producer of bamboo items based in Kōchi Prefecture since 1894, is also available to purchase.
About Tosa torafu bamboo (Kōchi prefecture)
‘Tosa’ is the historical name of present-day Kōchi Prefecture where this bamboo exclusively grows in Awa, Susaki City. Torafu (lit. ‘tiger-striped’) refers to the distinctive mottled pattern on the culms (stalks), which resembles the markings of a tiger. The pattern is believed to result from microorganisms found in the soil unique to this area.
It is said that during the Edo period (1603–1868), this bamboo was presented to the shogunate as part of the local tax tribute from Tosa Domain.
Tosa torafu bamboo groves
Tosa torafu bamboo grows rapidly, its culms (stalks) reaching almost their full height – around 10 to 15 metres – in just three months. After three years, the mature culms can be harvested for use.
In the bamboo groves of Awa, bamboo is cut during the winter, then sorted and prepared in spring to provide a year’s supply of material.
Support from: Taketora, The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden
Photo credit: Taketora
Photos from the display at Japan House London
Photos from the display at Japan House London: a gallery of 3 items.
