February 17, 2025, Akita Sakigake-Shimpo newspaper.
【Kaba-zaiku, feel free to put it up.】
Tomioka Shoten, a manufacturer and seller of kaba-zaiku in Kakunodate-machi, Semboku City, is selling “Bark stickers,” which are made by cutting out round pieces of wild cherry bark.
It was made from unused materials that were too small to be used for tea caddies and other purposes. In addition to envelopes and gifts, the company recommends putting them on business cards to create a buzz.
Hosei University's Humanity Design Laboratory planned and designed the product, and Tomioka Shoten commercialized it. Aisen, a designated welfare service center for people with disabilities in the city, is also responsible for part of the process. President Kokii Tomioka said, “I want people of all ages to know the appeal of Kaba-zaiku.
Three types with different textures, “raw,” “half polished,” and “polished,” are available, priced at 880 yen for a pack of 13 sheets.
It is sold at NewDays Kakunodate in JR Kakunodate Station Building and Kakunodate Kaba-zaiku folklore hall. (Yoko Ishizuka)