Japan’s relationship with gold (金, “kin”) stretches across millennia. Since its discovery on the islands, this precious metal has long symbolized wealth and power in the archipelago. But the country’s relationship with the element is not only one of practicality but also reverence.
The shimmering substance covers temples and shrines. Additionally, statues of the deities within them are crafted from it. The mastery of working with the metal has also evolved into skills that have become part of the culture. Today, we’ll examine how gold in Japan has affected buildings, art, religion, and life.
A Brief History of Gold in Japan
Evidence of gold’s use in Japan dates back to prehistoric times. Archeologists have found small golden ornaments mixed with artifacts from the Jomon era (14,000-300 BCE), suggesting that early inhabitants valued the metal. Serious mining using Chinese techniques began around the seventh century. Sado Island’s Aikawa Mine in Niigata Prefecture became the main producer during the Nara period (710-794). It was known for its rich deposits even though miners used simple tools to extract and refine the ore.
This success caught the attention of the imperial court. In the Heian period (794-1185), the country adopted more advanced methods from the Tang Dynasty in China. Mining spread across Honshu during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). By the Edo era (1603-1868), the Tokugawa shogunate had taken control of production. This marked the beginning of the state’s gold trade.
How was gold traditionally used in Japan?
Traditionally, the element was crafted into delicate jewelry such as hairpins and necklaces for nobility. Samurai families also displayed wealth through armor and swords accented with bright metal. The imperial court particularly prized it in the form of coins to show their status. Soon, it was being used as currency.
But it had other uses. Goldsmiths hammered it into thin sheets and used it to accent structures. It was used to decorate palaces and the homes of the elite. Sacred spaces such as temples and shrines were also gilded. And religious artifacts, like Buddhist statues, often featured golden halos to signify enlightenment. Such artistic works set the stage for its widespread use in Japanese art.
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What are some examples of gold used in Japanese art?
Kogei (工芸) is the Japanese art of transforming gold into artistic forms. These meticulous skills were passed down through generations of artists and are displayed in museums and temples.
Maki-e
Maki-e is a technique that involves sprinkling gold (or silver) powder onto wet lacquer to create intricate designs. It became popular during the Edo period to decorate boxes, tea utensils, and writing instruments. Some of the highest-quality maki-e pieces are displayed at the Tokyo National Museum.
Kintsugi
The powder is mixed with the lacquer in the art of kintsugi (golden joinery). Broken ceramics are then repaired using the mixture as an adhesive. This transforms the cracks into artistic expression and embraces imperfection. Kyoto’s Raku Museum showcases stunning examples of kintsugi.
Kinpaku
This art form involves hammering the metal into sheets thinner than human hair instead of powder. These sheets have been used for centuries to adorn kitchenware, folding screens, and food. Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture is renowned for preserving this centuries-old craft. Over 99% of Japan’s gold leaf is produced here. Kinpaku helped adorn famous historical buildings such as the Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto. Visitors to the Kanazawa Yasue Kinpaku Museum can witness the process of creating these delicate sheets in person.
What is Japan’s relationship with gold today?
Today, gold is treated with the same reverence. It is still used for accents in shrines and temples and in rituals. Businesses often incorporate “金” into names like “Kin-no-Tamago” (Golden Egg) to show success. Images of old-style coins connect products and services to prosperity in advertising campaigns. Artisans and jewelers like Kyoto’s Kogei studios still practice traditional gilding skills, balancing tradition and innovation with their lacquerware.
Mining still occurs in the country to a limited extent. The Hishikari Mine in Kagoshima Prefecture is the country’s only active commercial mine. Sumitomo Metal Mining has operated it since 1985 and now produces around six tons of high-grade gold annually. Its efforts focus on sustainable practices and benefiting the local economy instead of international trade.
Why Is Japan’s relationship with gold important?
Japan’s relationship with gold is important because of the country’s connection to the metal’s history and culture. This metal has supported economic growth since ancient times and will likely continue, with new mines planned in Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu. The mine on SadoIsland no longer produces ore but still contributes to the economy as tourists explore its tunnels. This metal started as a state-controlled treasure and symbolized purity and divine connections.
It is also an integral part of many art forms unique to Japan and a precious metal representing wealth and imperfection. This relationship reveals how a single element can shape a civilization’s identity over centuries. Do you have any thoughts on how Japanese gold has shaped its culture? Or have any suggestions for exploring its legacy? Comments are welcome below!
