Shell Inlay Sakura Tea Canister

This tea canister from Yatsuyanagi, a manufacturer of cherry bark work in Akita Prefecture, is decorated with a falling sakura (cherry blossom) motif using shell inlays, taking advantage of the natural beauty of cherry bark.

The lustrous brown cherry bark is characterized by its moist texture and beautiful luster. The inside is also made of cherry bark, which is moisture-proof and antibacterial, preserving the flavor of the tea leaves put inside.

The cherry trees used for Akita cherry bark work are mainly wild cherry trees from the Tohoku region, which grow in a harsh climate and are said to be beautiful and durable.