★Rare Item★Okawa Seiro Store★Ohitsu (Rice Container)★Approx. 15cm Diameter★For 1.5 Go (approx. 3 cups)★

This is a handmade *ohitsu* (rice container) by master craftsman Yoshio Okawa, a bending craftsman from the Japan Artisan Association.

Craftsman Yoshio Okawa passed away several years ago, making this item unobtainable.

It has been used about 3 times at home and is in beautiful condition.
We hope someone can make use of it.
Although this item has been used a few times, it has been handled and used by someone.
We ask for your understanding.

Cooked rice becomes delicious when mixed immediately after cooking to allow air to circulate and cool it.
Furthermore, transferring the rice to an *ohitsu* allows the natural wood to absorb excess moisture and maintain an appropriate temperature, resulting in delicious rice even when cold.

Cypress wood, said to be the most suitable for bentwood, is used for the sides, while cypress wood, which is durable and water-resistant, is used for the lid and base. The joints are secured with strong cherry bark.
A minimal amount of adhesive necessary for the manufacturing process is used, but no nails or metal bands are used.
Locally sourced materials are used to keep costs down.

Cypress and cedar have antibacterial properties, making them ideal for storing rice.

To prevent rice from sticking to the *ohitsu*, fill it with a cup of water and let it sit for a while before use.
This will prevent the rice from sticking.
After use, simply rinse it off.
The key to making your *ohitsu* last is to avoid prolonged soaking in water and direct sunlight.
After use, rinse it quickly and let it dry. It dries surprisingly quickly, making maintenance easy.
Wood contains a large amount of moisture, so storing it in a plastic bag is strictly prohibited as it can cause mold.
Store it in a well-ventilated area, or wrap it in newspaper if you will not be using it for a long period.
With careful use, this bentwood *ohitsu* can last for generations and be passed down to the next.