The history of "Gold Leaf Day" is surprisingly old, dating back to 1971 (Showa 46). It was established by the Ishikawa Prefecture Gold Leaf Industry Cooperative Association, which includes many gold leaf manufacturers.

This commemorative day embodies our wish to preserve the historical techniques and culture of gold leaf for future generations, and to create an opportunity for the general public to learn about the appeal of gold leaf as a material.

On this day, various events related to gold leaf are held in Kanazawa, and "HAKUZA NIHONBASHI" in COREDO Muromachi also offers a special opportunity to experience Kanazawa's craftsmanship.

The exact time when gold leaf production began in Kanazawa is uncertain, but there are records indicating that approximately 430 years ago (1593), Maeda Toshiie, the first lord of the Kaga Domain, ordered the production of gold leaf.

During the Edo period, the shogunate, in order to maintain control over the minting of currency, prohibited the production of gold leaf outside of Edo and Kyoto. Nevertheless, the Kaga domain secretly continued to manufacture gold leaf. While keeping it hidden from public view, the technique of gold leaf production was passed down and refined to perfection.

Time has passed, and as of 2026, 100% of Japan's gold leaf is produced in Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture.

There are two main methods for producing gold leaf: "edge-bound gold leaf" and "cut gold leaf."

"Entsuke gold leaf," with a history of over 400 years, is made using a traditional method of sandwiching gold between layers of washi paper and hammering it out. The key to this process is the "gold beating paper." Handmade washi paper (ganpi paper) is soaked in water, straw lye, persimmon tannin, egg white, etc., then squeezed and machine-beaten. This process is repeated many times, and the gold beating paper, which is carefully nurtured for more than six months, is arguably the essential element of gold leaf production.

Another method is "cut gold leaf," which uses glassine paper coated with carbon. This is a modern manufacturing method developed more than 50 years ago. Unlike edged gold leaf, which requires transferring the paper multiple times, this method is highly productive because it is hammered and stretched in one go, and it now accounts for a large portion of the gold leaf distribution.

Gold leaf with a unique, beautiful sheen and durability remains indispensable for the restoration of national treasures, shrines, and temples. Hakuza, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, continues to produce traditional gold leaf with a border, contributing to the preservation of important cultural properties.

A foil stamping craftsman is someone who applies foil, created by a foil beating craftsman, to products to express their unique style.

How to approach the materials, and how to achieve a beautiful finish? This job requires constant vigilance throughout every step of the process, with countless judgments and careful considerations behind each action.

At Hakuza, we are involved in the restoration of numerous shrines and temples, including the Golden Hall of Chuson-ji Temple in Iwate Prefecture, as well as national treasures and important cultural properties. At the same time, we also utilize gold leaf in everyday items such as tableware, interior decor, accessories, cosmetics, and food products.

In recent years, the company has been focusing even more on gold leaf processing orders. One of its representative works is the "on-site gold leaf application by craftsmen" on the ceiling of the second floor of "Tiffany Ginza," which opened in July 2025, in cooperation with the Kanazawa Gold Leaf Traditional Techniques Preservation Association. Furthermore, Hakuza's gold leaf processing is also used in hotels and commercial facilities throughout Japan.

Under the corporate philosophy of "Creating a future where gold leaf is a part of life," Hakuza is not only preserving tradition but also expanding the possibilities of gold leaf to deliver its value to the lives of people living in the modern age.

On August 8th (Sat) and 9th (Sun), 2026, a special event called "Hakunohi 2026" will be held at "HAKUZA NIHONBASHI" on the 1st floor of COREDO Muromachi 1, welcoming a gold leaf craftsman from Kanazawa.

The demonstration by the gold leaf artisan showcases the "expression of handcrafted work through gold leaf." Unlike mass-produced uniformly on a factory line, each piece of gold leaf has its own unique character. Even the fine wrinkles that appear the moment the foil is applied become part of its beautiful expression. No two pieces are exactly alike, just like people—everything is different. This individuality is a major part of the charm of gold leaf.

We also offer hands-on programs where visitors can experience applying gold leaf themselves, feeling like a true craftsman. You can enjoy Shops to create a "Goldfish Gold Leaf Cotton Pouch (reservations required)" or a "Happiness Gold Leaf Stone."

Last year's "Foil Day" event was a huge success, receiving a great response. This is a valuable opportunity to experience the craftsmanship of Kanazawa artisans and the profound depth of foil as a material. Please come and visit!

Event details can be found here.