Kawatsura lacquerware is produced in the town of Kawatsura in the southern part of Akita prefecture. The history of this region’s lacquerware dates back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when it is said that Michinori ONODERA ordered his vassals to lacquer sword sheaths, bows, armor, and other military equipment and also allowed peasants to use lacquer weapons as a side business.

Over time, Kawatsura lacquer artisans began carving smoke-dried horse chestnut and beech wood into vessels and coating them with lacquer The special beauty of Kawatsura lacquerware is attributed to use of the "hana-nuri" technique, which involves predicting the flow of the lacquer and finishing the work with a rich top coat of lacquer. This fresh-coating technique, which respects the natural lines and luster without sharpening or polishing, creates rich curves and accentuates the satiny texture of the lacquer. The end result is lacquerware that is popular for everyday use because it is durable, easy to use, and yet relatively inexpensive.