It is believed that the tradition of laquerware was taken from the Kii Negoro temple by Wajima during the Muromachi period (before 600 A.D.). From this period on, Wajima began to refine the method of lacquer-coating. The technique of laquerware production progressed from its original use, Buddhist altar fittings and other religious articles, to production of articles for the average person such as tables and dishes.

A kind of yellow earth was discovered in Wajima in the Kabun period (1661-1673), and named "ji no kona" (base powder). It was successful in the porduction of Wajima lacquerware. Using this special earth, superior techniques and new ideas raised the reputation of Wajima's laquering immensely. During this interval of improvement, Wajima lacquerware also became well known for its splendid decorative patters, and the inroduction of lacquer inlaid with gold technology (1716-1735) and Wajima lacquer work technology (1818-1829).

Currently it is estimated that there are 100 places creating, displaying and selling Wajima lacquerware in Wajima. These include stores, factories and museums.

The Wajima tradition of laquerware has no parallel elsewhere in the world, and has become the leading name in Lacquerware in Japan, as an art and as an industry.

In 1977 the Wajima lacquering technique became recognized as an important intangible cultural asset of Japan.