Celebrate a century and a half of artisanal mastery with Kaikado, a richly designed book marking the 150th anniversary of Japan’s iconic tea caddy maker. Journey into the heart of Kaikado’s Kyoto workshop, where six generations of craftsmanship converge in the creation of chazutsu renowned for their quiet precision and timeless elegance.

Told through bilingual English and Japanese text, the artisans themselves guide you through their tools, techniques, and enduring philosophy—stories deeply rooted in heritage and expressed through their own voices.

Lavishly illustrated with original, detailed photography, the book invites readers into the atelier’s daily rhythms, capturing the exacting steps behind each caddy and the subtle evolution of its design. Tradition and innovation blend seamlessly, producing pieces “refined to the point of almost being plain.”

Material choices mirror the soul of Kaikado’s craft. Printed on two premium paper stocks with metallic inks that echo the copper, brass, and tin finishes, the book’s tactile experience reflects the tea caddies themselves. Three distinct cover designs add surprise to each unboxing, while textured divider pages pay homage to Kaikado’s bespoke packaging. An exposed spine binding—typical of Japanese fine publishing—rounds out its artisanal construction.

Publisher: ERG Media

Hardcover, 290 pages, 200 illustrations, 8.66" x 11.4"