Blue Leaf is a small, specialized woodworking shop located right in the heart of Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture, surrounded by lush forests and abundant natural beauty.
Allow me to briefly share my (the owner’s) background. In my twenties, I worked for about seven years at a major Tokyo-based company specializing in the import and wholesale of apparel and interior goods.
After that, I couldn’t let go of my long-held dream of living abroad. At age 29, I moved to Canada, where I spent around six years. Because of my love for interior design, I often used my days off to explore furniture and interior shops, collecting pieces that caught my eye.
However, when the sudden global pandemic struck, I was forced to return to Japan. Feeling quite lost, I realized again just how much I love creating things. During my uncertain days overseas, furniture and interior design brought me comfort and peace—an experience that sparked my desire to make these items myself.
Soon after coming back to Japan, I relocated to Hida-Takayama, a region renowned for woodworking. While searching for a place to train, I was fortunate enough to cross paths with my current mentor. Before I knew it, I had spent several years fully immersed in apprenticeship and hands-on experience, all the while becoming deeply fascinated by the local cultural heritage passed down through generations.
Working closely under my mentor, I witnessed the intense dedication to furniture-making and the exceptional pieces that result from it. Wanting more people to see and experience this craft firsthand, I opened Blue Leaf in May 2024.
Today’s Blue Leaf is supported by the knowledge, skills, and guidance from my mentor and the senior artisans in the workshop. I would be honored if the authentic “Hida furniture” crafted by this small team of skilled craftsmen could become a part of your everyday life.
Currently, while managing Blue Leaf, I work alongside my mentor making dining tables, benches, stools, clocks, and other items.
In addition to these original creations, I also showcase exceptional woodworking products from all around Japan, personally selected by me.
If you happen to visit Hida-Takayama, please be sure to stop by our store. We look forward to welcoming you.
BlueLeaf Aoba (Owner)