Temma Kiriko is a form of Japanese cut glass, or kiriko, that has an Osaka heritage. Unlike other Japanese cut glass brands that focus on elaborate patterns to impress, Temma Kiriko keeps things simple outside. Look closer, though, and you'll notice hidden details made for everyday enjoyment.
The glasses create striking light reflections inside as you pour drinks, making them appealing to those who value beauty in functional objects. Once you witness the kaleidoscopic effect firsthand, you can never go back to using ordinary glasses.
Here we'll explore what's unique about Temma Kiriko, its surprisingly long history, and how it fits into kiriko glass culture.
1. Temma Kiriko History: Over 90 Years of Osaka Craftsmanship
In 1933, Sōzaburō Ura opened a small workshop in Osaka's historic Temma district. That marked the beginning of Temma Kiriko. The brand may be 92 years old, but its story runs much deeper. Osaka has been the heart of Japan's glass industry since the late 1700s, so Temma Kiriko carries that legacy forward.
The Ura family never let the craft stand still, continually evolving their techniques across generations. Notably, the second generation contributed their expertise to the 1980s revival of Satsuma Kiriko—a prestigious project that brought this once-lost art form back to life. Being part of such an important cultural initiative was quite an honor.
In 2000, when the second generation launched their original product lines, the brand was named "Temma Kiriko" to reflect the district's heritage. Yet the family's philosophy has never changed: crafting glass that's not only beautiful, but also beautifully functional. This sense of balance has defined Temma Kiriko's style from the start and continues to be passed down today.
2. Temma Kiriko’s Unique U-Cut Technique in Japanese Cut Glass
Temma Kiriko uses the U-cut technique, or kamaboko-bori in Japanese. Instead of sharp V-shaped cuts you often see in other kiriko, artisans carve smooth U-shaped grooves that are polished to a mirror-like finish.
This does two things: first, the glass feels great in your hand because no sharp edges are digging into your fingers. Second, those rounded cuts act like tiny lenses, reflecting the patterns (more on this later!) and making your drink sparkle and dance.
The U-cut is there to make the glass more functional and beautiful. This thoughtful design sums up their artful approach to functionality—creating everyday pieces that are meant to be actively used, not simply admired on the shelves.
3. The Kaleidoscope Effect: How Temma Kiriko Transforms Light
Pour, watch, and be mesmerized.
This is where Temma Kiriko truly shines. When empty, the glass holds a quiet elegance. But once it's filled, it transforms into something entirely different.
When clear sake is poured into a blue glass, hidden patterns emerge. The U-cut grooves scatter light through the liquid, creating effects that shift and shimmer as your drink moves. Or pour whiskey into a black glass and watch the amber liquid come alive against the dark backdrop.
This kaleidoscope look is what sets Temma Kiriko apart from other showpieces. These glasses truly shine when they're in your hand. In fact, people often say they end up pouring more drinks because they want to see the reflections again, leading them to drink too much!
4. International Recognition: Temma Kiriko on the Global Stage
In 2019, something special happened—Temma Kiriko was chosen as the official Japanese glassware gifted to the world leaders at the G20 Summit in Osaka. It was a clear sign of global recognition for a craft with 86 years of history.
The first recognition happened locally, though: the Osaka Prefectural Skills Award in 2003, followed by the Osaka Mayor's Prize in 2017. But the G20 spotlight truly introduced it to the world, showing how it represents both the heritage of traditional Japanese cut glass and a modern vision of everyday beauty.
That same year, the brand was formally established as a company. In 2023, we launched Temma Kiriko UX, our own bar and boutique in Osaka, where guests can experience the glassware firsthand—proof that the craft is not just preserved, but still evolving today.
5. Temma Kiriko in the Kiriko Glass World
Japan has a few main kiriko styles, each with its own signature. Temma Kiriko plays an important role in this shared culture, adding to it rather than replacing others.
Edo Kiriko (from Tokyo): Known for its bold colors and geometric patterns with crisp lines created by V-cut techniques.
Satsuma Kiriko (from Kagoshima): Recognized for its deep carving into thick glass, creating rich gradations of colors.
Temma Kiriko (from Osaka): Distinguished by its smooth, round cuts that emphasize comfort in use and create those kaleidoscopic reflections.
Together, they show the wide range of Japanese cut glass—some used for luxurious displays, and some, like Temma Kiriko, designed to elevate daily enjoyment. It's amazing how each region puts its own spin on the same tradition.
Temma Kiriko definitely reflects Osaka's personality: practical in its focus on functional beauty, yet playful in the way it entertains users with its magical transformations. Each piece is made to be both beautiful and practical, turning ordinary moments into something a little more special.
Get Ready to Experience Temma Kiriko
We can’t stop staring at this sparkle, can you?
If you are looking for glasses that become even more beautiful as you use them, Temma Kiriko offers something special you won't find anywhere else. Each piece of this Japanese cut glass is a genuine work of art, handmade by just seven artisans who carry on a 92-year-old tradition and are deeply committed to passing this legacy on.
When you find a glass that delights you every time you use it, everything you drink feels more delicious.
To experience this beauty in use, visit Temma Kiriko UX in Osaka, or browse our online collection to find the perfect piece for your home.
