#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Design #Haibara #KURABI

KURABI Launches New Series in Collaboration with Haibara

The renowned Kawai Co., Ltd., headquartered in Obama, Fukui Prefecture, has partnered with Haibara Co., Ltd., located in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, to unveil the "KURABI x Haibara" series set to launch on January 20, 2026. This innovative product is crafted under the theme "Where Design Inherited Lives on the Dining Table", blending the strengths of both companies to create a unique item that embodies craftsmanship and artistic tradition.

Background of Product Development

Haibara has long been pondering the idea of incorporating traditional patterns into chopsticks. Their concept mingled serendipitously with Kawai’s discovery of Haibara's intricate designs. This encounter sparked a mutual inspiration that led to the birth of the KURABI x Haibara series, reflecting a harmonious collaboration between two creative forces.

Characteristics of the Product

1. Utilizing Both Companies' Materials and Techniques
The chopsticks feature Haibara's traditional patterns combined with the exquisite washi paper techniques, handcrafted by Kawai artisans, resulting in a uniquely textured pair that embodies elegance in design and usability.

2. Design Concept
Four exquisite designs characterize this chopstick series, each allowing for the addition of meaningful words when given as a gift. Each pair is wrapped in washi paper, ensuring a distinct tactile experience with every set. An accent of gilded lines, applied by hand to each pair, elevates its aesthetic appeal.

- Chrysanthemum and Arabesque Pattern
The chrysanthemum is known for its antibacterial properties, while the arabesque symbolizes longevity and prosperity—an ideal motif for items that deliver food to our mouths.
- Patterned Tanabata Decorations
This design showcases traditional Japanese aesthetics and auspicious symbols associated with Tanabata and the pines, bamboo, and plum represented within.
- Fortune Prosperity Motifs
Featuring symbols like weighted coins and mallets, each element signifies wealth, desire, protection, and value.
- Crane and Tortoise within Hexagonal Patterns
Instantly recognizable as a symbol of longevity, these chopsticks naturally evoke thoughts of loved ones, perfect for gifting.

3. Gift-Worthy Appeal
Whether used personally or given as a heartfelt gift, these chopsticks carry deep significance and beautifully connect with the lives of their users. They make an excellent choice for wishing well upon family and friends, celebrating new beginnings, and serve as a thoughtful gesture for seasonal greetings.

For more insights and stories behind the creation of this product, we invite you to visit our official website and read the dialogue piece featuring voices from those involved in this collaboration. Click here for the dialogue article.

Product Overview

Company Overview

Kawai Co., Ltd.
Location: 16-2 Kitashioya, Obama, Fukui Prefecture
CEO: Koichi Kawai
Business Activities: Planning, manufacturing, and sales of Wakasa painted chopsticks, lacquerware, and tableware
Website

Haibara Co., Ltd.
Location: 2-7-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
CEO: Tatsuo Nakamura
Business Activities: Washi paper-related business including measurement recording paper and supplies
Website