HAKUICHI

 


Founded in 1975 by Kuniko Asano, Hakuichi pioneered the gold leaf industry. She was a housewife married to a man whose family owned a struggling gold-leaf maker. At the time of the company's founding, although 99% of gold leaf in Japan was produced in Kanazawa prefecture, it was treated only as a craft material, and nowhere was it labeled "Kanazawa foil." Mrs. Asano was determined to change that. She embarked on the challenge when female entrepreneurs were unheard of.

She wanted people to use Kanazawa foil not as a luxury but an everyday item. She wanted to convey Kanazawa foil throughout Japan as a brand originating from Kanazawa. What she has accomplished for the company and Kanazawa was remarkable. Now, Mr. Tatsuya Asano, her son, continues to strive to connect Japan's excellent craftsmanship to the future.

 

Thanks to my dear friend Shoko Tsurumoto, the brand's creative director, I was introduced to Mrs. Asano in 2020 at the Hakuichi showroom. Mrs. Asano said, "I want to do a project with you in New York!" But she regretfully passed away in February of this year, 2023. Well, Ms. Asano, we are carrying on your wish and are introducing your products to New York and beyond. 

I hope you will enjoy Hakuishi's gorgeous products in your home.