Kabazaiku is a craft made using the bark of Yamazakura cherry trees. This traditional craft features an austerely elegant and deep colour that makes use of the tree's unique luster. It is used to make items such as tea leaf caddies and other tea utensils, writing boxes, tea cabinets, brooches, and tie pins using techniques that have been handed down since ancient times in Kakunodate. The bark has a quality that blocks out moisture and prevents drying, and is particularly suited for tea leaf caddies.

The Semboku City Kakunodate Kabazaiku Center has a kabazaiku craft exhibition room, and also holds kabazaiku demonstrations. There is also a workshop where you can make your own small kabazaiku hanging scroll, so why not try your hand at making your own souvenir?(Reservations required: Senboku City Exchange Design Division Tel. 0187-43-3353)