Kobori Bugutsu — Kyoto, Japan

Established in Kyoto in 1775, Kobori Bugutsu is a 14th-generation family business specializing in traditional Buddhist altars, lacquerware, ceremonial objects and prayer beads.

For over 250 years, Kobori has preserved the techniques of Kyoto's Buddhist craftsmen, producing elaborate altars incorporating carved wood, lacquer and gold leaf. Their work extends to the restoration of historic religious objects and important cultural sites, including work at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

During a visit to Kyoto, Philip and I had the opportunity to meet Kobori's president, the 14th-generation owner of the family business. He personally showed us around their workshop and showroom, where we saw the extraordinary workmanship involved in producing these traditional Buddhist objects.

Kobori also makes Buddhist prayer bracelets using natural stones, carved woods and ceramics. Among their more unusual pieces are bracelets incorporating hand-painted ceramic beads, which, as Kobori's president explained to us, are painted by Buddhist monks at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto.

At Bee, Bark & Moss, we carry a selection of Kobori's Buddhist prayer bracelets. Having visited their workshop and learned about their history firsthand, we have a particular appreciation for the craftsmanship behind these pieces.

Explore our selection of Kobori Buddhist bracelets.