When looking up Japan in reference materials, the word urushi (lacquer) is often found. As can be seen from this example, lacquer ware craft is one of the symbols of Japanese culture. An important part of Ehime's traditional art, Sakurai lacquer ware are made in Sakurai,Imabari City which is a port town facing the Seto Inland Sea. Sakurai lacquering techniques were enhanced with the influences of wajima-nuri which makes use of gold in the design, and also by the design style of nankai lacquer ware among others, and thus has a unique taste born from a blend of such influences. In recent years, its lustrous shine has come to be appreciated as a luxury craft, and new novelty products such as snack bowls, address books and teacups coated with the lacquer have also become popular.