Hasegawa and Kandi House Unveil New Premium Buddhist Altar 'TEN'

Introduction

In a remarkable collaboration between Hasegawa, a company specializing in Buddhist altars and memorial stones, and Kandi House, a premier furniture manufacturer from Asahikawa, Hokkaido, the new premium Buddhist altar named 'TEN' has been introduced. This elegant piece, set to launch in late October 2025, promises to embody an exquisite blend of traditional values and modern design.

The Origin of 'TEN'

Hasegawa, with its roots in Fukuoka and Tokyo, has long been a leader in the Buddhist altar market, while Kandi House has established itself as a manufacturer of high-quality wooden furniture recognized both domestically and internationally. The collaboration is a part of a trend towards merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. The 'TEN' altar draws heavily from Kandi House's popular furniture line of the same name, showcasing a design ethos that is both sophisticated and functional.

The Visionary Behind 'TEN'

Renowned designer Michael Schneider, who has worked with several high-end German furniture brands, spearheaded the design of 'TEN.' With numerous prestigious awards under his belt, Schneider encapsulates the philosophy of creating timeless designs that favor durability and beauty over fleeting trends. His vision aligns perfectly with the essence of the Buddhist altar, which is a space for reflection and homage.

Kandi House's Commitment to Craftsmanship

Since its inception, Kandi House has remained committed to quality manufacturing in Asahikawa, a UNESCO-designated city of design. Drawing inspiration from Japan's culture and the natural beauty of Hokkaido, the company has successfully exported its craftsmanship to 28 countries. Aiming for sustainability, Kandi House has increased its usage of Hokkaido-grown materials in its products, committing to a harmonious relationship with nature – a fundamental principle that reflects in the 'TEN' altar, crafted from Hokkaido ash.

Features of the 'TEN' Altar

The 'TEN' altar stands out with specific features that convey both functionality and aesthetic appeal:

- Dimensions: 130 cm in height, 55 cm in width, and 45 cm in depth.
- Material: Constructed with Hokkaido ash veneer and MDF core.
- Finish: A rich brown urethane coating adds depth and elegance.
- Price: Priced at ¥1,320,000 (tax included).

The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in the altar's design, from the edges of the tabletop to the handles of the doors, showcasing Michael Schneider’s artistic sensibility and the precision of woodworking.

The top door is designed for ease of access, with a three-way opening that opens wide and folds to the sides, maximizing compactness. The interior features two spacious compartments for religious items and offerings, ensuring ample storage. Additionally, the altar’s legs and black-painted top provide a modern touch, creating a profound ambiance.

Lighting and Atmosphere

The interior of the 'TEN' altar is adorned with a resin material that mimics traditional Japanese paper, emitting a soft glow that adds to the serene atmosphere. The integrated lighting system automatically turns on and off as the doors open and close, heightening the overall experience.

Retail Availability

The 'TEN' altar will be available exclusively at selected Hasegawa stores, including:

- Hasegawa Fukuoka Main Store
- Hasegawa Tobu Ikebukuro Store
- Hasegawa Setagaya Store
- Hasegawa Niiza Store
- Hasegawa Soka Store
- Hasegawa Takinomizu Store

Future Directions for Hasegawa

Hasegawa's introduction of 'TEN' supplements its existing line of high-end Buddhist altars such as the 'Hakuen' series designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The company is committed to expanding its 'H PREMIUM COLLECTION,' which embraces collaborations with notable designers and skilled manufacturers to innovate beyond conventional altar designs.

About Hasegawa

Founded in 1929 and officially incorporated in 1966, Hasegawa has ingrained itself in the business of providing peace and support through its Buddhist altars, religious paraphernalia, and memorial stones. As of 2025, the company operates 137 stores, displaying a commitment to supporting a tranquil way of life for its customers.