Where are we from?

Kaiwu has its roots in Shandong, a province in China.

Shandong is known as the home of Confucius and Mencius, the birthplace of Confucianism. Even today, this ancient philosophy's values deeply influence how people live here. It’s a place rich in history, where the tales of Water Margin (one of China’s great classics) unfolded and Mount Tai, the most revered of China’s sacred mountains, stands tall. The Yellow River flows into the sea here, and the land thrives with abundant natural resources, a diverse climate, and a rich legacy of craftsmanship passed down through centuries.

If you’ve ever been to Shandong, you’ve probably felt the warmth and authenticity of its people. In China, if you ask where the friendliest and most welcoming folks are, everyone will mention Shandong without hesitation. Honesty, sincerity, and simplicity are the hallmarks of the Shandong spirit.

This authenticity also lives on in its artisans—humble craftsmen and women who’ve spent their entire lives perfecting traditional skills. Yet, many of these artisans have faced challenges in modern times. Factories churn out mass-produced imitations, driving down prices and overshadowing the original handmade treasures. These craftspeople, who work with the finest natural materials and honor age-old methods, often live modestly, unaware of how to promote their art. It’s heartbreaking to see their work—so rich in heritage—being replaced by soulless replicas.

That’s why my partner and I decided to act. We’ve traveled through Shandong’s towns and villages, seeking out these hidden gems—the artisans who stay true to their craft despite the odds. We’re thrilled to bring their high-quality, handmade creations to the world, shining a light on their artistry.

Under the enduring influence of Confucian values, these artisans are preserving intangible cultural heritage with incredible dedication. And we’re just getting started. From our base in Shandong, we’ll continue exploring across China, discovering more of these treasures.

Through Kaiwu, we aim to strike a balance between beauty and practicality, helping elevate people’s daily lives and nourish their souls with products that carry both meaning and tradition.