Akita cedar cooperage is a traditional handicraft in the area around Odate City, Akita Pref. It is designated as a Traditional Craft Product by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. Making of tubs in this area dates back to the Heian period (794-1192). A tub in almost the same shape as the present products was discovered at the ruins of Akita Castle. In the early Edo period (the 17th century), the cooperage developed under the protection of the domain and the union of coopers was organized.
Traditional skills and a fine straight grain of local cedar that withstands the severe winter in the region contribute to producing high quality tubs and barrels. In the making of another Akita’s special product, Mage-wappa (bentwood work), a thin piece of cedar board is curved round, while in the making of tubs, pieces of strip board are placed around the bottom board and bound with a bamboo hoop. Items such as Japanese bath tubs, rice tubs and sake barrels are mainly produced now. Recently new products such as beer tankards are becoming popular.