For a unique Japanese craft experience, visit the mountain town of Yamanaka Onsen.

The tradition goes back generations.

Gradually, they moved closer to the hot springs, where they could sell their wares as souvenirs.

Wooden exterior of Engawa bar in Yamanaka Onsen, Japan.

The sake bar Engawa, in the town of Yamanaka Onsen, Japan.Credit:Yuki Nishihana/Courtesy of Engawa

(Even the liquor store has a selection of wooden bowls.)

Among them,Bunpeidosells traditional examples, some decorated with ornate gold designs.

Others, likeGato Mikio,showcase modern designs with matte finishes.

A bartender serving sake to guests in wooden lacquerware cups

Sake is served in lacquerware cups at Engawa.Yuki Nishihana/Courtesy of Engawa

Both also sell a lesser-known product:wagatabon,ridged trays chiseled from a single piece of chestnut.

Wooden lacquerware bowls with gold accents

Gold-accented bowls from the lacquerware shop Bunpeido.Courtesy of Bunpeido

Wooden lacquerware cups at a sake bar

Lacquerware cups at Engawa.Yuki Nishihana/Courtesy of Engawa