About 400 years ago when Ujisato Gamo was made the feudal lord of Aizu he took 5 wood carvers and 46 lacquer craftsmen from his home town of Hino in Shiga Prefecture to Aizu. (Hino at that time was already famous for its quality lacquer ware particularly Hino bowls). They taught their skills to the local people and thus began the history of lacquer ware production in Aizu.

The difference between Aizu lacquer ware and lacquer ware from other regions is that Aizu lacquer ware is made by a division of labour. Aizu craftsmen specialize in only one part of the process and so become very highly skilled in their work.

In addition to this, the division of labor enables production to be increased. Due to these factors Aizu has become famous for its lacquer ware.

Lacquer ware items are typically bowls, trays and plates for sweets.