Edo Kiriko Glass

Edo Kiriko (cut glass) is a glass manufacturing style founded in 1834 by Kagaya Kyubei. Marked by the clear colors and delicate patterns cut into the glass, Edo Kiriko flourished and grew in popularity thanks to the unique designs. Many patterns, such as chrysanthemums leaves, nanako (fish-egg like circles), and yarai (arrows) are just some of the examples to the popular patterns used for Kiriko Glass. The glass is cut using a base layer and a thin colored layer. The thin glass forms on the outside leaving a bright, vibrant color around the clear glass. Nowadays, Edo Kiriko glass is used for sake bottles and cups, western wine glasses, whiskey glasses, and other dishes and vases. There's also a similar glass style called Satsuma Kiriko, a style that overlays colors when forming the glass. If you are a sake or whiskey drinker, be sure to purchase an Edo Kiriko style cup as a great memento of your Japan tour vacation with us!