Characterized by its bright red, deep black, and elegant shape, Appi lacquerware is produced in the Appi River basin in Hachimantai City, Iwate Prefecture. In the past, wood craftsmen in this area mainly used beech, but today, tochi, zelkova, and cherry trees are more commonly used. To create vessels made entirely from natural domestic wood, the craftsmen carefully apply layers and layers of original lacquer, which is then hardened, polished, and re-coated. The precious raw lacquer, or lacquer sap, is supplied from northern Iwate Prefecture, one of the few areas in Japan where it is still being harvested.

The high-quality lacquer harvested in this area has a shimmering transparency that brings out the best of the base colors. Multiple coats yield the distinctive plush look and durability of Appi-nuri lacquerware and also provide thermal benefits, keeping chilled foods chilled and cooked foods hot.