Kohaku Glass Workshop

Mr. Tatsuya Saito is a Ryukyu Glass artisan born and raised in Kaho-machi (present day Kama-shi). With a serene look, one can feel the deep tenderness and the determination which is found in this Chikuho resident. Mr. Saito uses this determination when producing these delicate works of blown glass.

The process of making Ryukyu Glass is straight forward. First, recycled glass is carefully washed and polished. It is then ready to be melted once more and to be shaped.

Present day Ryukyu Glass was born out of the ashes of World War Two. The special characteristic of the glass is the air bubbles visible in the finished product. There was a time that this glass was considered a second class artwork. However, this is not the case anymore. According to Mr. Saito, ”Now these days, Ryukyu Glass is also called ”Bubble Glass” because of all the bubbles in the finished product. It is also recognized as a Okinawan tradtional art. Threw my work, I want to let the world know about this cultural side of the glass. It gives me great pleasure to take something and remake it into a work of art”.

Mr. Saito was asked about setting up a workshop and studio for making Ryukyu Glass in the Chikuho area. ” The Chikuho area is a place where one can leisurely pass the time as well as a place that calms the senses. Even though I might be in a hurry, the nature often soothes me. I think that I have inheired the temperament of the Chikuho River, so I am prefectly suited to make the glass here!” said Mr. Saito with a gentle smile.