“Awano Shunkei,” also known as Mito Shunkei, is a traditional lacquer craft that is counted among the three Shunkei of Japan. It is the oldest Shunkei lacquer in Japan and is said to have been started in 1489 by Inagawayamashiro no Kami Minamoto Yoshiaki in what is now Awa, Shirosatocho.

The entire process of creating Awano Shunkei Nuri – from raw material production to finishing – is conducted in Ibaraki. This lacquerware tradition is characterized by the use of sturdy Ibaraki cypress and Ibaraki Daigo lacquer, which results in a texture that is full of transparency and a beautiful glossy finish. The primary products of Awano Shunkei include stacked boxes, trays, lunch boxes, and inkstone boxes.