Introduction of Akama Suzuri
Akama Suzuri, or Akama Inkstone, is one of Japan’s most celebrated traditional crafts, cherished for over 800 years. Crafted in the Shimonoseki and Ube regions of Yamaguchi Prefecture, this inkstone holds a deep connection to the art of Japanese calligraphy. Since the Kamakura period, monks, scholars, and samurai alike have relied on it to grind ink and compose poetry or sutras. Its elegant simplicity and exceptional functionality make it more than a mere writing tool—it embodies Japan’s philosophy of harmony between beauty and practicality. Each Akama Suzuri carries centuries of cultural heritage, representing the quiet strength and meticulous artistry of those who dedicate their lives to transforming raw stone into instruments of thought and expression.
What distinguishes Akama Suzuri from other inkstones lies in its unique material and the rare craftsmanship behind it. It is made from Akama stone, a fine-grained rock containing abundant quartz and iron—minerals ideal for producing smooth, vividly colored ink. The stone’s strong yet pliable texture allows for both functional and decorative carving, from minimalist surfaces to ornate lidded designs. Remarkably, artisans mine the stones themselves, delving deep into underground tunnels to extract the delicate rock without exposing it to drying air. This requires not only carving expertise but also knowledge of geology and safe explosive use—skills that take over ten years to master. Each finished inkstone radiates a quiet dignity, polished by the patience, precision, and sincerity of its maker.
Geographical Feature
City: Shimonoseki City
Prefecture: Yamaguchi Prefecture
Population: Approximately 250,000 (as of 2025)
Famous Products: Fugu (blowfish), Kawara Soba (buckwheat noodles), Akama Suzuri, and Onoda Ceramics
City Introduction
Located at the southwestern tip of Honshu, Shimonoseki City serves as a historic gateway between Japan and the Asian continent. Known for its scenic Kanmon Strait and rich seafood culture—especially its famous fugu—Shimonoseki also preserves deep artistic traditions such as Akama Suzuri. Surrounded by mountains and sea, its natural beauty and resources have nurtured generations of artisans who transform local stone into works of timeless refinement.
History of Akama Suzuri
Origins in the Kamakura Period
The roots of Akama Suzuri stretch back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when stonecraft techniques flourished alongside the rise of Zen Buddhism and calligraphy. An inkstone offered by shogun Minamoto no Yoritomo to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine still exists today—proof of the craft’s early prestige. The name “Akama” originates from Akamaseki, an area of Shimonoseki where production first began.
The Edo Era: A Symbol of Status
During the Edo period, the mining of Akama stone was strictly regulated by the Choshu Domain. Because extraction required official permission, Akama Suzuri became a luxury item, often presented as gifts to feudal lords and high-ranking officials. Its reddish-brown hue, graceful carvings, and superb ink quality established it as one of Japan’s finest inkstones, admired both for its practicality and refined beauty.
Meiji Modernization and Artistic Expansion
With the rise of literacy during the Meiji era, the demand for writing tools surged. More than 200 artisans were active, producing both utilitarian and highly decorative inkstones. Despite a decline in numbers over time, dedicated craftsmen continue to preserve the techniques passed down through generations, blending practicality with artistry in every piece.
Features of Akama Suzuri
Stone of Precision and Beauty
Akama Suzuri is prized for its fine-grained stone, which allows ink to be ground into the smoothest possible consistency. The natural quartz particles provide gentle abrasion, producing rich, glossy ink ideal for calligraphy and painting. Its texture is both dense and elastic, giving it excellent durability while enabling delicate carving. Each stone is selected and cut with precision, forming the “hill” (oka) for grinding and the “sea” (umi) where ink collects. The resulting surface is perfectly balanced—neither too hard nor too soft—offering the ideal friction for beautiful ink flow.
The Artistry Behind the Stone
Beyond its practicality, Akama Suzuri is also a canvas for artistic expression. Skilled artisans carve intricate motifs such as dragons, waves, or floral patterns using traditional techniques like ukashi-bori (relief carving), ke-bori (fine line engraving), and tataki-bori (hammer texturing). The delicate curve known as hato, connecting the grinding hill and the ink pool, is considered the heart of the craft—requiring absolute precision. Every piece is then polished by hand and finished with a protective lacquer on non-inking areas. Each inkstone is a reflection of its maker’s spirit, uniting function and art in perfect harmony.
Modern Applications
Today, Akama Suzuri continues to be cherished by calligraphers, collectors, and art enthusiasts worldwide. While mass production is impossible, workshops such as Gyokukodo, founded in 1896, maintain traditional methods while innovating new designs. Beyond practical use, Akama Suzuri is now appreciated as an art form—its graceful curves and serene texture symbolizing Japan’s enduring dedication to craftsmanship and cultural beauty.