[.ca] Japan Craft Sourcebook: A Guide to Today's Traditional ... (ISBN 4770020732)

Excellent source book for Japanese crafts:
For afficionados of Japanese crafts, this book provides a fine selection of popular crafts from different regions of Japan. From washi to woodwork, the featured items are beautifully photographed are accompanied by useful general information. As a coffee table book, it is informative and replete with photographs. Perhaps the greatest criticism is that it is on the small side for a book of its kind. Nonetheless, the photos are quite beautiful and will be worth it especially for those who have lived in Japan or who have an interest in the array of crafts presently popular in Japan.

Excellent reference book, lots of great photos:
This is an excellent reference book on over 90 different Japanese crafts from all areas. For each craft there is a history as well as the basics of how it is made. It is an encyclopedia rather than an instruction book. Some types of crafts covered include ceramics, textiles, lacquer ware, bamboo craft, paper, woodcraft, metalwork, dolls, fans, lanterns, candles & items of calligraphy. The photographs are numerous & all are in color. I loved looking at the textiles & kimonos. I also enjoyed the Kyoto ware, kutani ware, bamboo containers & decorative ink stones. I found the extensive list of books to be invaluable in finding out how to make the crafts mentioned here. If you intend to visit Japan you will find the map of craft villages & list of craft museums, associations & centers very helpful.