Bamboo carving techniques were introduced to Japan from China and were already popular during the Nara period. Sanuki bamboo carving is said to have originated from Sanuki carving methods developed by Tamakazo Zoukoku, the founder of Kagawa lacquerware. Bamboo itto carving takes advantage of both the strength and softness of bamboo, and traditional carving and finishing techniques have been passed down to the present day.