CHIYODAYA

Objects That Endure for Over a Century

Craftsmanship Passed Down Through Generations

Established in 1935, Chiyodaya boasts nearly 90 years of history. The company specializes in the creation and restoration of Buddhist altars and implements, as well as festival floats, temple interiors, Buddhist statues, and portable shrines (mikoshi). Third-generation craftsman Nobuaki Kushida, with 36 years of experience, has earned recognition as a Traditional Craft Artisan in lacquer work for Nagoya-style Buddhist altars. He has also been honored as an Outstanding Skilled Technician in Nagoya’s traditional industries.

Beyond its expertise in lacquer work, Chiyodaya has cultivated a wide network of highly skilled artisans and top-tier material suppliers. These include specialists in woodworking, gold-leaf application, ornamental metalwork, and makie(decorative lacquerware). By merging time-honored techniques with modern innovations, Chiyodaya creates unique works that push the boundaries of tradition.

A Heritage of Craftsmanship Rooted in Nagoya

Nagoya has long been a gathering place for master artisans and premium timber, originally attracted by the need for castle and temple construction and supported by the region’s strategic logistics. During the Edo period (1603–1867), craftsmen began specializing in Buddhist altar production, establishing the foundation for Nagoya-style altars. Building on this legacy, Chiyodaya has mastered lacquer work and honed the many techniques required for altar-making.

The production of Buddhist altars brings together a wide array of traditional skills, including gold-leaf application, ornamental metalwork, and makie. This multifaceted craft reflects a deep connection to prayer and spirituality, inspiring Chiyodaya’s commitment to authenticity. The company distinguishes its work from mass-produced, plastic-based items coated with synthetic paints by championing the use of natural materials. This approach not only honors tradition but also contributes to environmental sustainability.

Sustainability Through Natural Materials and Time-Tested Techniques

Creating with natural materials and traditional techniques is deeply aligned with environmental conservation. Lacquer, one of the world’s most durable coatings, is harvested sustainably from lacquer trees. Similarly, the wood used in Chiyodaya’s creations, such as zelkova, is sourced through forestry practices that balance logging and replanting. Often, this wood is over 300 years old, and the resulting pieces are designed to last between 100 and 1,000 years.

These carefully crafted products become cherished heirlooms, connecting generations and offering enduring emotional significance. This philosophy stands in stark contrast to the disposable culture of mass production and consumption.


Traditional techniques refer to materials and methods that have been used for over a century and have proven to endure for more than 100 years.

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