Kiso lacquerware is produced in and around Kiso Hirasawa, located between Niekawa and Narai, post towns in Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture. Taking advantage of the abundant forest resources, including Kiso cypress, and the cool climate of the highlands, which is ideal for making lacquerware, Kiso Hirasawa began producing lacquerware in the early 17th century. While many lacquerware production areas in Japan developed under the patronage of feudal lords and influential people, Kiso lacquerware developed by making functional everyday items for ordinary people and by taking advantage of the town’s location in the middle of the Nakasendo road. As a production area for lacquerware for daily use rather than luxury goods, many items that can be used casually are still produced today.