Kintsugi:
The Ancient Japanese Aesthetic of Sustainable Upcycling
The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN brings you the sustainable world view that is not “good as new”, but “better than new”.
Our Kintsugi is a Contemporary Art that reconnects a world that has been divided.
Every Kintsugi tells a story.
Experience Wabi-Sabi: the Japanese art of finding beauty in the broken, honoring the story within.
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Embrace Timeless Japanese Beauty
What's Kintsugi?
"金継ぎ" Kintsugi is a unique Japanese technique in which broken vessels are repaired using urushi (Japanese lacquer). In Japan, imperfections such as cracks and stains on vessels are considered to create value. The typical way of thinking is that broken vessels must be discarded. However, we believe upcycling gives new life to such vessels and enriches the lives of those who use them. By reviving the spirit of the craftsman, who has poured his or her time into the piece, the vessels can be upcycled rather than being thrown away. This is what modern, sustainable luxury is all about. We hope that you, too, see the beauty in Kintsugi, a practice which conveys the Japanese spirit.
Learn all about KintsugiMeet the artist behind the pieces
Kintsugi artists
Nobuyasu SUGINAKA
Nobuyasu Suginaka, born in 1964 in Shiga Prefecture near Kyoto, is a master lacquer craftsman with 40 years of experience in lacquering and restoring Buddhist altars. Renowned for techniques such as haku-oshi and roiro, he brings his deep expertise to kintsugi, sometimes incorporating decorative methods such as nashiji to enhance each piece. He is a founding member of The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN, dedicated to promoting the beauty of urushi lacquer and creating unique kintsugi pieces that combine tradition, artistry, and timeless craftsmanship.
Keiko HATA
Keiko Hata, born in Boston, holds a Master’s degree in Urushi Lacquering from Kyoto City University of Arts (2014). Specializing in kawari-nuri and raden inlay, her work is inspired by the organic beauty of nature. Her cultivated experience in Buddhist statue restoration has honed her expertise in urushi lacquer, allowing her to explore its transformative potential in various artistic expressions. Through Kintsugi, she brings the rich tradition of Japanese lacquer art to a global audience, bridging heritage and contemporary craftsmanship.
Where to buy Kintsugi in Japan? It's here!
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Start Your Kintsugi JourneyGolden testimonials
Kintsugi Reviews
100+ Happy Customers Worldwide: Loved by Many!
Peter. S. / Dublin, Ireland
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
The beauty of the craftsmanship!
The beauty of the craftsmanship is truly breathtaking! It's clear that so much care and skill go into every creation, making it a joy to own and treasure.
March, 2025
Jarod A. / Quebec, Canada
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
A Masterpiece of Japanese Craftsmanship – Truly Grateful!
Just receive it today , and it was wonderful , not to mention the craftsmanship behind this repair , truly a work of japan talent , I'm very grateful to the artist and the team!! Thank you!! Love from Canada!!
February, 2025
Shannon C. / Lancaster, U.K.
Kintsugi repair service customer
★★★★★
Service That Goes Above & Beyond
Superb!! Friendly services, great communication, everything customisable and I felt very involved and inclusive, definitely would return if any repairs needed!!
January, 2025
Stephen P. / Florida, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
Genuine Insight into Kintsugi Artistry
The authenticity of the presentation and process of explaining the thought behind each piece of Kintsugi.
December, 2024
P.C.Balachandran / Kyoto, Japan
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Artistry That Speaks for Itself
The quality of the finish is exceptional. The craftsmanship shows true artistry and attention to detail.
November, 2024
Angelique and Phil / Sydney, Australia
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
Embracing Imperfect Beauty
This kintsugi piece perfectly captures the beauty of life's imperfections. Each repair tells a story, making it more than art - it's a daily reminder that flaws can become our most beautiful features.
September, 2024
Karen C. / Ontario, Canada
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
A Dream Fulfilled: Kintsugi in My New Home
I first learned about kintsugi a decade ago and dreamed of owning a piece. Now, as my husband and I move to a new home after nearly 50 years, these kintsugi pieces will bring beauty, resilience, and renewal into our space. Holding them in my hands feels like a prayer for healing in the world.
August, 2024
Karen C. / Ontario, Canada
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
Kintsugi: Reflecting Our Imperfections
Unique reflection of the brokenness of each of us, and the transformation that is possible into beauty.
April, 2024
Adam L. / Florida, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Beautiful work
I love the philosophy behind Kintsugi. This piece perfectly embodies the beauty of imperfection.
April, 2024
Rodney B. / Texas, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
A testament to the authentic craftsmanship!
We love our kintsugi sake cup. It was created with an incredible attention to detail. The information that was given to us during the process was so interesting and made the piece much more special.
March, 2024
Simone C. / South Carolina, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Timeless Techniques, Stunning Kintsugi!
The craftsmanship is exceptional, with a strong emphasis on the use of natural, traditional processes and ingredients. It's evident that great care and attention to detail is invested in every step, resulting in a product that not only looks beautiful, but also honors ancient techniques.
February, 2024
Luke M. / NSW, Australia
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
unique & beautiful craftmanship
I was truly impressed by the unique and beautiful craftsmanship. It's clear that each piece is crafted with an incredible amount of care and precision, resulting in a truly unique work of art.
January, 2024
Chris & Emilia P. / California, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
Thoughtful Design, Exquisite Beauty
The quality, the beautiful aesthetic, the deep thoughtfulness behind the design, the texture and the story behind the craft.
December, 2023
Suood L. / Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Kintsugi repair service customer
★★★★★
Masterful repair!
I truly appreciate the authentic way your Kintsugi pieces are presented. It feels like each piece has a story to tell, and the repairs only enhance its unique character. It's clear that a lot of love and care goes into the restoration process.
December, 2023
Jennifer M. / Tokyo, JAPAN
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Beautiful & A Trustworthy Merchant!
The craftsmanship is beautiful and I love that you were able to ship the piece to me. It was very well packed.
December, 2023
Leila P. / Hawaii, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
Thought & Care in Every Piece
I love that it is original, and that so much thought and work went into each piece.
November, 2023
Teilo P. / London, UK
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
Impressed by Authenticity
The authenticity of the product and the presentation of everything. I also enjoyed the beginning where you are educated on the history of kintsugi.
September, 2023
Thelma Z. / California, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
A Memorable Kintsugi Journey
Michie, Ken & Yasu were wonderful hosts, offering a memorable Kintsugi experience. Our package from Kintsugi Labo arrived safely, and the completed Kintsugi small plates hold special meaning with the stamped date on the back. The Kintsugi sake cup is a beautiful addition to our collection. Thanks for everything!
June, 2023
Farhad R. / Basel, Switzerland
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
Simplicity Refined
Simple, elegant, uplifting!
June, 2023
Julia K. / California, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Swift＆Stunning!
Fast delivery, high quality, beautiful work, certification included!
March, 2023
Heather C. / California, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Beauty in Brokenness
The dragon bowl was made even more beautiful through its brokenness as it was expertly re-crafted by The Kintsugi Labo. I couldn’t be happier with my beautiful unique piece of pottery.
March, 2023
Farhad R. / Basel, Switzerland
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
Beautiful Kintsugi, Fast delivery & Great business model!
It arrived very quickly and Beautiful Shigaraki ware tea cup , even more beautiful after the repair! Congratulations to Mr Suginaka, and also to Michie and Ken for this way of supporting local artists and businesses!
February, 2023
Casey. F / Texas, USA
On-site Buyer
★★★★★
A trusted and satisfying purchase
Among the many shops selling "Kintsugi like" pieces, The Kintsugi Labo JAPAN is the only one I trusted for authentic Kintsugi. The price range is reasonable considering the superb techniques and value of the original vessels. I'm delighted to have purchased such a beautiful Kintsugi pottery during my stay in Japan.
December, 2022
Lynne. G / Queensland, Australia
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
Stunning Craftsmanship
I purchased 3 Neo Kintsugi serving plates, they are stunning!!! The quality & workmanship is just beautiful. I would highly recommend The Kintsugi Lab to anyone looking for something a little different. Also their customer service is second to none.
November, 2022
Susan K. / Washington, USA
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
A Beautiful Piece with an Inspiring Business Model
My son adores the kintsugi sake cup I bought from you. It's a truly beautiful piece with skillful repairs. The extra gifts and natural box were appreciated. Your website's philosophy and business model enrich our experience. Thank you!
August, 2022
Karen C. / Kentucky, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Authentic and Meaningful Gift
I purchased a beautiful piece for my stepdaughter - not only is it beautiful and authentic but it comes with a story if it’s history and meaning - what an amazing gift!
June, 2022
Jason P. / Massachusetts, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Beautifully Restored Cup Makes Perfect Gift
I purchased a beautifully restored cup as a gift for my wife. It was well packaged and promptly delivered to her in the US. She loved it!
May, 2022
Taku N. / Texas, USA
Repeat Customer
★★★★★
Elegant and Timeless Kintsugi Tableware
I ordered 3 elegant neo-style rectangular plates and a stunning traditional kintsugi tea bowl. They surpassed my expectations in person and make perfect gifts. The pricing is fair, and the packaging and shipping were remarkable. I'm delighted to have found your studio and look forward to future purchases or visiting in person
April, 2022
Denise, R / Maryland, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Perfect Wedding Gift and Wonderful Customer Service
I received the perfect gift for my nephews wedding. Thank you so very much !!! I hope I can wait until the wedding to give it to him. You have been an absolute pleasure to correspond with and I look forward to making more purchases in the future. *And the special note from you - beautiful 💕
March, 2022
Ryan C. / Utah, USA
Verified Buyer
★★★★★
Beautiful Kintsugi Hagi Vessel, Excellent Service
The Hagi-style vessel is stunning, and Mr. Suginaka's kintsugi repair is museum-worthy. I'm grateful to have found your import business, connecting artisans and appreciative customers like me. I look forward to being a loyal customer and sharing my positive experience with others.
December 2021
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We rescue broken Japanese pottery using traditional Kintsugi techniques, transforming them into unique, handcrafted treasures. Shop with us and embrace the beauty of eco-friendly craftsmanship!
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