Apple Box Furniture Project by M. ARITSUKA from japan

Apple boxes are used for sending apples from producing areas to consuming areas efficiently, as they are made to fit conveniently into freight cars. The boxes are made using Japanese red pine. They were handmade by farmers, and companies specializing in box making. Apple farmers print their own logos and market brokers will write down their trade notes on these apple boxes.

Wooden boxes are said to keep apples fresh for longer than cardboard or plastic ones. In the Tsugaru region, many wooden apple boxes are circulating in the market today. They are strong and are often used for 20 to 30 years.

However, in recent years, most of the apple boxes sent to the west from Kansai are not returned and are discarded due to transportation costs. “The Apple Box Project" brings out the appeal and value of apple boxes forming the landscape of the Tsugaru region. We aim to increase the return rate of apple boxes and bring new and innovative ways for their use in the apple industry.