The history of Magemono (bentwood work) goes back centuries, and Hakata in Fukuoka is reputed to be the birthplace of this craft. Over time, Tochigi, Nagano, and other parts of Japan also became centers of production. (In the Kanto region, bentwood work is known as Magewappa.) Craftsmen apply water and heat to thin sheets of cedar or cypress, bend them into forms, then bind them with cherry bark. Cedar and cypress are ideal materials for this craft because of their flexibility and ability to retain heat and moisture. Items made using magemono techniques are light but strong and can last a long time when properly cared for.