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Nanbu ironware has been made in Morioka City and Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture since ancient times.
Due to its tasteful surface pattern and high functionality, it is attracting attention not only in Japan but also overseas.
In this article, we will introduce the appeal of Nambu ironware, a traditional craft from Iwate Prefecture, restaurants where you can enjoy delicious local gourmet food using Nanbu ironware, and easy ironware dishes that you can make yourself.
What is Nambu Tekki?
Ironware in Morioka began in the 17th century when the lord of the Nanbu domain invited potters from Kyoto to produce tea kettles, and ironware in Oshu began during the Heian period when Fujiwara Kiyohira invited ironware craftsmen from Omi to make weapons. is said to have started.
Nanbu ironware is made from pig iron as its main raw material, and its surface is decorated with artistic patterns. It has the characteristics of being rust-resistant, long-lasting, and has excellent heat retention by evenly transmitting heat.
The various surface patterns, such as arabesques, animals, and plants, are handmade one by one from molds, and are finished with lacquer to prevent rust.
Currently, there are 730 craftsmen in 74 offices, and the annual production value is said to be 9.2 billion yen.
In 1975, it was designated as the first Japanese traditional craft, and currently there are 21 traditional craftsmen designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry.
In addition to the traditional black-painted ironware, colorfully colored teapots have recently been produced, and have become popular in Europe, and were exhibited at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010. It has become popular.
There are a variety of products using Nanbu Ironware that take advantage of its characteristics, such as iron kettles, grill pans, pots, wind chimes, and accessories.The benefits of Nanbu Ironware products are as follows.
Invisible unevenness on the surface created by the mold prevents burning.
By boiling water, iron gradually oozes out and replenishes iron.
Minerals such as calcium and magnesium contained in tap water adhere to the inside of the iron kettle.
It makes hot water mellow and delicious.
Soft water with low mineral content is suitable for cooking Japanese tea, coffee, rice, and Japanese food such as extracting the umami ingredients from kelp and bonito flakes to create delicious soup stock.
Introduction to Nanbu Ironware Workshop
We will introduce you to the famous Nanbu Ironware workshops in Iwate Prefecture that you can visit.
The 13th head of the family, Suzuki Morihisa, won a gold medal in the art category at the World Exposition and has been designated an intangible cultural asset. The current 15th head, Suzuki Morihisa, is the first female kettle maker in the Nanbu ironware market, has won numerous awards, and continues to recreate ironware that can be used in modern life.
They are also available online, and you can see and select the products at the Suzuki Morihisa workshop and shops in Minami-Odori, Morioka City.
Suzuki Morihisa Studio ＜Information＞
Name: Suzuki Morihisa workshop
Address: 1-6-7 Minami Odori, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, 020-0874
Since our founding in 1901, we have been working to create products that fit modern lifestyles while preserving the traditions of Nanbu Steel.
We have produced many colored teapots and kitchenware that match modern sensibilities, and we are also working to create new traditions by producing Nanbu ironware series by overseas designers and developing overseas sales channels.
At the Iwachu Ironware Museum, you can see up close the 400-year history of ironware manufacturing and all the processes involved in making ironware, including casting and coloring.
We continue to preserve the Japanese spirit and the long-lasting blessings of authentic Nanbu iron kettles, which are made from tea kettles with handles and spouts, and the traditional wabi-sabi of iron kettles that embody the spirit of tea ceremony.
Currently, sales are primarily focused on online shops.
Tayama Iron Bottle Workshop ＜Information＞
Name: Tayama Studio Co., Ltd. (Tayama Iron Bottle Workshop)
We use local ingredients from Oshu City and prepare delicious Italian dishes using Nanbu ironware. We recommend the owner's ``Nanbu Tekki Course,'' a creative dish served in piping hot ironware.
Nambu Ironware can boil delicious water containing iron. It is also perfect for modern women who have a habit of drinking hot water.
In addition to the traditional black iron kettle, a variety of colorful cooking utensils have also been created. Whether you visit Iwate and enjoy it with gourmet food, or you can easily buy it online and enjoy cooking it at home, please experience the goodness of Nanbu ironware.
I'm a member of the Neft editorial team. I love alcohol, music, and traveling, so I indulge in some drinks after work on weekdays, and on weekends, if I have free time, I travel to nearby areas. I work hard every day with the goal of eventually traveling overseas to find connections to Tohoku through NEFT reporting.
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