Otaru Glass Floating Glass Ball

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[Asahara Glass Manufacturing Co., Ltd. x Otaru Department Store UNGA↑] In order to pass on the techniques of float glass manufacturing, we commissioned "Asahara Glass Manufacturing" in Otaru Tenjin, which continues to produce glass there, to make original UNGA↑ glasses. The history of glass in Otaru began with everyday items such as containers for storing necessities, oil lamps, and "buoy balls" for fishing. While the demand for glass products has decreased over time, they have evolved from practical items to those with design elements, and are deeply rooted in Otaru's culture. These glasses evoke the image of floating glass beads and offer a refreshing coolness. They have a comfortable thickness, and the stability they provide when held is also appealing. You can choose from four different colors. (From left to right in the photo: clear, sea blue, retro green, navy blue) [clear] A warm glass that evokes the feeling of old-fashioned household goods, made with the natural color of recycled materials. Sea blue A refreshing blue glass that evokes the lifestyle of Mr. Asahara, who loves nature so much. [Retro Green] These retro-style glasses are inspired by the float glasses that used to be made from recycled glass from liquor bottles. Navy blue A deep blue glass reminiscent of the night sea, retaining the warmth unique to handmade blown glass, crafted one by one by artisans. This will be delivered in this UNGA↑ original box. The "Floating Glass" is a living tool that embodies the glass culture of Otaru, created from a modern perspective. You can experience the comfort of using it with your own hands.

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Approximately 8.5cm in diameter and 9cm in height. *Since these are handmade items, the color, size, etc. vary from piece to piece. *Depending on your monitor settings, the actual color of the product may appear slightly different.

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Around 1897 (Meiji 30), Otaru had a high demand for glass products as lighting fixtures and storage containers, and there were many glass factories. One of them was Asahara Glass Manufacturing. In 1903 (Meiji 36), the first generation, Hisakichi Asahara, founded a glass factory in Tomioka-cho, Otaru City, where he manufactured glass household goods such as lamps and medicine bottles. He received a manufacturing request from the Fisheries Experiment Station at the time, and in 1910 (Meiji 43), he devised a method for manufacturing glass fishing floats, which greatly contributed to the herring fishery and the North Pacific fishery. It's impossible to discuss the development of Otaru's fishing industry or the establishment of blown glass in Otaru without mentioning these "buoy balls." Hisayoshi Asahara taught the manufacturing method to his relatives and expanded Asahara Glass factories (Otaru, Nemuro, Asahikawa, Sakhalin) throughout Hokkaido. However, with the rise of plastic float balls, the scale of his business gradually shrank. Currently, Saichiro Asahara is the fourth generation to inherit the family business, and he continues to produce the floats in Otaru Tenjin, passing on the "float manufacturing" technique, which is unique in Japan.

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"Majime Otaru" is an irregular column where we speak with Ishikawa, the director of the Otaru City Museum, and delve into the rich history of Otaru. Please enjoy it.