Wall-Mounted Funadansu Art Piece Inspired by Sakata Funadansu (Ship Chests)

A redesigned, lightweight wall-mounted art piece inspired by the traditionally massive Sakata Funadansu. This work translates the spirit, structure, and symbolism of historic ship chests into a contemporary form suitable for modern interiors.

What is Sakata Funadansu?:
Sakata Funadansu is a decorative yet highly durable wooden chest that originated in Sakata City, located in the Shonai area of Yamagata Prefecture, during the height of the Kitamae-bune maritime trade.

While ship chests existed in other port regions of Japan—including Niigata, Hyogo, and Hiroshima—Sakata Funadansu is distinguished by its exceptional mass, rich ornamentation, and advanced construction techniques. These chests were designed not only for utility, but also to express authority, prosperity, and trust.

Characteristics of Sakata Funadansu:
Traditionally made from solid zelkova and cedar, Sakata Funadansu featured shock-resistant structures designed for ship interiors. Extreme durability was prioritized over portability, resulting in exceptionally heavy chests. All components were assembled using advanced joinery techniques without the use of nails.

More than storage furniture, Sakata Funadansu functioned as a status symbol for Sakata’s merchant class, embodying trust, formality, and commercial integrity.

Learn More About Shonai Craft Culture:
For those interested in learning more, we also offer a deep cultural tour that explores Shonai’s world-renowned craft heritage shaped by the Kitamae-bune trade routes and the Shonai domain.

Through hands-on workshops, direct interaction with craftsmen, and local food experiences, participants can deeply experience traditional crafts such as Shonai Sashiko and Sakata Ship Chests (Sakata Funadansu). This tour offers an immersive opportunity to feel the passion and dedication of artisans throughout the Shonai region in northeastern Japan.

For tour details and inquiries, please visit the following URL:
https://en.tsuruokajoin.com/