Shimatani Syouryu Studio is a workshop specializing in traditional hammered metalwork, based in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture.
We handcraft orin (Japanese singing bowls), and also produce suzugami—a paper-thin flexible tin dish—under our in-house brand, syouryu.
Situated between the Sea of Japan to the north and the majestic Tateyama Mountain Range to the south, this area was established as a castle town about 400 years ago by Toshinaga Maeda, the second head of the Maeda clan of Kaga (which now includes parts of Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures).
Since then, the town of Takaoka has flourished as a center of Takaoka copperware, a craft that began when seven metal casters were invited here from the Kansai region. From everyday tools such as pots, kettles, and farming implements, to weapons for battle and Buddhist ritual objects for prayers of peace, Takaoka’s metalwork has long supported people’s lives throughout Japan.
Shimadani Shouryu Workshop inherited the art of tankin (hammered metalworking) techniques for crafting orin (singing bowls) from the main family line and was founded in 1909 (Meiji 42) by the first generation, Kazukichi Shimadani.
Today, 115 years since its founding, the workshop is led by the fourth-generation craftsman, Yoshinori Shimadani, who preserves the legacy alongside fellow artisans—caring for time-honored pieces while also pursuing new creations.
In February 2013, the workshop launched the household goods brand syouryu, independently developed suzugami, and released it to the market.
At present, drawing on inherited tankin techniques, the workshop continues to create both orin and suzugami, while welcoming visitors for tours and hands-on experiences.