Greetings

Thank you very much for visiting the website and online shop of Kisarazu Bamboo Workshop Chikusei.

I would like to take a moment to share a little about Chikusei's approach to craftsmanship.

When creating something, my goal is always to go beyond mere expectations and requests.

Rather than settling for "just enough," I strive to think ahead and add elements that can only be achieved through handmade, custom-ordered craftsmanship—touches that truly resonate with people. The warmth of handwork, the delicate details, and the thoughtfulness embedded in each piece are all aspects I wish to convey. I want to create works that feel essential to the people who receive them.

When my creations can genuinely connect with someone, I hope to remain a craftsman capable of inspiring and moving people through my work.

Studio Name: “Chikusei”

For someone as clumsy as me, making things is my communication tool.

Feelings I couldn't put into words, I conveyed by imbuing objects with my thoughts.

I create each piece hoping it too can convey such fleeting emotions. Stars in the sky are invisible when it's bright, but they sparkle when darkness falls. My works are like that too—present in daily life, simply being there. Yet I wish for moments when they catch the eye and shine. That's why I named my workshop “Chikusei.”

Searching Beyond the Best for Each Person

Since ancient times, Japan has fostered a culture of craftsmanship, passing down techniques that enable people to create with their own hands. I have devoted myself to learning from these traditions and the history nurtured by past artisans.

Ever since I embarked on the path of bamboo craftsmanship, I have faithfully absorbed the teachings and techniques of my mentors. However, I also recall moments when I sensed certain questions and inconsistencies along the way.

Now, I am determined to face those questions head-on and refine my own unique path in the world of craftsmanship.

November 2025
Chikusei　-Bamboo Atelier of Star-
Representative: Yoshimi Ishiyama

Profile

1985: Born in Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture

2007: Graduated from Kyoto Traditional Crafts College (Kyoto)

2007: Joined Nagaoka Meichiku Co., Ltd. (Kyoto)

2010: Acquired Level 2 Bamboo Craftsmanship Certification from the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare

2014: Returned to hometown Kisarazu, Chiba

2014: Became an apprentice to the late Masao Uyama, a traditional craftsman of Bōshū Uchiwa fans

2016: Established Kisarazu Bamboo Workshop Chikuboshi; currently active

2019: Installation of bamboo light art at Tokyo German Village

2022: Participated in NEO PRIMITIVO DESIGN JAPAN Exhibition

2024: Created bamboo installation at Hotel Mikazuki

2024: Held a fan workshop at Morikami Garden in Florida

2024: Held a Boso fan workshop at Budokan in Florida

2025: Exhibit bamboo crafts and Boso fans at Japan Expo in France

2026:Demonstration at Al-Diriyah Season in Saudi Arabia

From creating traditional crafts to producing a wide range of bamboo works such as bamboo fences, shrine creations, lucky charms, and monuments, I cultivate bamboo and use bamboo that I personally harvest. In the summer, I conduct live demonstrations and sales at department stores, bookstores, and select shops. I also engage in outreach activities through workshops and lectures to convey the charm and value of bamboo craftsmanship.

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