How Japan's Secret Puzzle Boxes are made (Full Documentary)

This is my documentary about the craftsmen that make up the Karakuri Creation Group in Odawara, Japan. A small group of puzzle crafters who've been creating original Japanese puzzle designs for over 50 years. They allowed me to film their workshop and interview them about the process of puzzle making. I hope you enjoy the video and take something away from this project.
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#ChrisRamsay

[@ChrisRamsay52]

Thanks to everyone reading this. I appreciate all the kind messages and am thankful to have such a supportive community. The break was much needed and I'd be lying if I said that my anxiety wasn't through the roof right now. But only because I'm really proud of this and hope you'll all get notified. If you can, Like, comment and share this video. Every little bit helps.

[@Lizalica91]

Chris, we are here for you! I have been binge watching all of your videos, from puzzle solving to escape rooms... And I am excited for more in the future!!! Love from Croatia ❤

[@lunameriweather7693]

you are amazing chris!

[@1986krazy]

So happy to see you back, Chris, and glad you got the much needed break you deserved. Your mental health is always way more important than a weekly upload. Looking forward to what you have in store going forward.

[@seanrutter3470]

Always waitijg for your posts as well as B.O.B. with you and Wes

[@ulmekuubis]

When u started to show them magic that was the best part for me :), I think for them as well :) 1st all the way

[@WesBarker]

This is unreal. I’m excited for you all to see it.

[@xpunkrockmomx]

At first I was listening more than watching and I hear that Wes laugh. Anyway good video guys.

[@ShaneP803-]

Everyone needs a friend like you dude!

[@sulliedvideo]

Great camera work, Wes! Did you guys try making your own puzzles?

[@fikanera838]

I was so happy that you were there too!

[@lenloving]

I live in Japan. This was a beautiful homage to the artisan culture that thrives here! Also, the toilet puzzle around 4’30” has a twist (figuratively): it’s polite to make sure the slippers are arranged for the next person to use. That was a clever thing to build into the puzzle. It’s instructive and reinforces the culture of politeness. I love your channel, Chris. Be well 😊

[@ChrisRamsay52]

Oh, I didn’t know that!

[@dl2415]

I was curious about that one, so the slippers are shared?

[@Banzai2012]

Being a Japanese person, I approve

[@tvuser9529]

@@dl2415 Yes, there is commonly a pair of "toilet slippers" that are only used in that room. I have seen them in traditional hotels. Very faux pas if you forget to swap back to your regular slippers when exiting the bathrroom.

[@jacksonordo659]

Oh right cause you guys don't wear shoes in the home and have restroom slippers for people to use..super hygienic

[@caittails]

I love the fact that the one person was so bewildered when you asked him what his goal was. I think everyone’s goal is to be able to have work that transcends goals. Not like a stagnancy, where you have no goals because you’ve given up or become complacent, but because what you’re doing is fulfilling.

[@vathe757]

I know you've been discouraged lately bc of view counts, but please don't stop making these vlog style projects man. They are quite literally pieces of art. Masterfully done, beautifully filmed and edited. They are so peaceful to watch on top of entertaining. Thank you🙏

[@insanitysektor]

This! It's such a great piece of content & art in its own right.

[@kelmoore4043]

I couldn't imagine putting on KZbin and not seeing one of your videos pop up. They are very well made. And those intros are epic!

[@joosetheconqueror845]

It has 7 million views lol He’s discouraged at that number?

[@jccatv901]

@@joosetheconqueror845 7 Million Subscribers. This video has 170k views at the time im writing this comment. The KZbin algorithm has not been pushing his content the way it used to and its sad TBH. I always manually search for his new uploads to support such an amazing creator. If you see this Chris just know us loyal fans will always be here. Each video you upload is like a brief mental break and escape from my daily problems. I am sure many can relate. Its so raw and tranquil. I found you years ago from my love of magic as a child and stayed for the puzzles.. However this video was simply beautiful. Take their advice, do what makes you happy. The super expensive puzzles that go viral are great and I know there is monetary pressure to pay the bills but at the end of the day I click to watch you for who you are as a person. I do not watch "MrPuzzle".. I am so glad to see you back. I hope you enjoyed the mental health break. Each video is just that for me and many others. ;

[@Bat_Boy]

Morgan Freeman: “And that’s when my partner entered the store” Brad Pitt: “What’s in the boooox!!?”

[@pablovillaca]

I´m not speaking only as a fan of yours, but as a professional film critic for the last 30 years: this is a beautifully shot and edited piece. What a truly fantastic work you´ve done here. There´s a filmmaking career waiting for you in the future, Chris.

[@a.v.7797]

Totally agree with you!

[@myrialynn]

Agreed!

[@andarkelorin8797]

No disrespect intended, but he already has a successful film making career. They may not be feature films, or played at Cannes, but they are truly works of art now. It is baked into every video how much he cares about his craft and his audience, and it is an honor to be a member of that audience. Thank you Chris, for caring.

[@jaekn]

In case you didn't notice, he already has a "career" in filmmaking.

[@beejaymac66]

This was a most beautiful film - respectful, calm, peaceful and beautifully shot. I think the high production values are evident in all Chris's films - as are thecreativity and aesthetics.

[@gavic85]

This is so wholesome. He just went to Japan and documented a wonderful group of individuals that create some of his favorite creations as an appreciation for their art. And we all get to experience it.

[@SystemsAnalyst]

This is a HUGE comeback, Chris. Thanks for delivering this immersive documentary of master puzzle craftspeople through an in-depth and close-up look at their thoughts and exceptional woodwork. Truly appreciated your effort to break the language barrier and gained their trust to access the working areas where recording is restricted.

[@falksturmfels2737]

This documentary style has not only TV-production-level, it also has a very peaceful message. I liked the way everybody was treated with respect.

[@Glutnix]

This feels like you were on a spiritual journey, and you got to geek out with not only more puzzles, but to understand the people behind the puzzles, the legacy of the creation group and their global impact on puzzling but also that true Japanese down to earth humility that they are seeking their goals, mastering their craft, and are enabled to live their lives enjoying themselves, creating more puzzles for each other and their supporters, which further builds the group’s legacy. Thank you for taking us with you on your journey, Chris et al.

[@abundantharmony]

How was it a spiritual journey?

[@takaorobinson8719]

Well said

[@kzookid2051]

As a woodworker, I was very pleased to see that this wasn't just a tour, but an in-depth look into what it takes to make this type of puzzle. I have even more awe and appreciation of the puzzles and the craftsmanship and creativity it takes to achieve this. Great video, thanks Chris!

[@ryanwjohnsen]

@chris my sister lives in Tokyo, I havent seen her in 10 years. but I just sent her this video. she and I occasionally play escape games together when we can online, or other strategy games. She has been to the neighborhood, but never knew of this place. Thank you for going and creating this video as she will now go back to visit here. your video's have brought us together, enjoying puzzles together to reconnect while our mother goes through her chemo. Thanks for all you do

[@ivnehaas]

It was beautiful to see how respectful you were when manipulating their puzzles, and how mindful of the cultural differences you were. They were so lovely! ❤ Thank you for taking us with you in your journey. ❤

[@cerdjee4918]

They sure know how to accept business cards the Japanese way xD

[@MrDymytri]

So I only have one question, what kind of petition or thing do we have to do to get this documentary submitted for some kind of award? Because this was absolutely stellar, perhaps one of the most engaging things I have watched all year.

[@jtyb33]

I will sign it for sure.

[@constancelucas5478]

I am not a puzzle person, but I’m a sucker for learning about craftmanship and old technique This video was a real pleasure seeing everyone so happy and dedicated!

[@Frocta]

It is due to you that I found out about the Karakuri Creation Group. As the grandson of a carpenter, I have great reverence and respect for the craftsmanship that goes into each of these puzzle. I was able to get my first piece of theirs just last year and it is a prized possession of mine. This was a masterful documentary piece and I for one and glad you could share this journey with us.

[@Choli111]

I don't usually comment on KZbin, but your last video touched me deeply, so I wanted to help you fight the youtube system to get the video recommended as much as possible! Keep doing what you do Chris! I came for the magic but ended up staying for your awesome personality and style, You are great man

[@Khyranleander]

Dude, if this is what a break gives you, take as much time as you need! This was awesome, it's like they're making museum grade sculptures, but with the added benefit that you are MEANT to touch them, explore them... and thus end up thinking more about them than normal art you just walk by & say "hey, that looks pretty". Magnificent!

[@kungfuflipbook]

This made me cry! The sincerity of your process of not only finding a new appreciation for these moving wooden treasures of history and culture, but also finding yourself and the inspiration to continuing to bring your art and share it with us! Your production value continues to skyrocket, and I am so thrilled you found these magical places to feed your soul!

[@thunderofgr]

Same here. Watched this and was a mess at the end when my son came in to see. The passion they have and the execution they do, with such humble artisanship, is as masterful as this video journey Chris and the team brought us along with.

[@edcmt247]

I loved every minute and moment of this video. I loved that this video was able showcase not only the immense talent Japanese artisans possess, but also their humility and deep sense of pride in whatever they do. I was smiling watching you enjoy this experience. Thank you, Chris!

[@thetreeratsymposium]

As someone who creates with their hands daily this is truly inspiring. I can only hope some of my creation can be as loved by the ones who handle them as the beautiful creation shown in this well made mini documentary. Thank you Chris.

[@hayestweed7143]

Absolutely one of my favorite videos of yours. You deftly showed your appreciation of this amazing art form with humility and respect. You’ve displayed a level of craftsmanship on par with that of the subjects of your video. Thank you, Chris, and welcome back.

[@MondoTheAlien]

I absolutely love how you can see the personality of the craftsperson in all of the trick boxes, some are more story focused, some are about humor, some are all about the complicated mechanisms, its beautiful and inspiring to see a collective of craftspeople all working together to continue to do what they love, wonderful video

[@EPOyun]

For a few years now, as an editor of 20 years, I’ve appreciated how good an eye you have and how good your editing is. The views are discouraging, but one way or another, I know you’ll find your way somewhere, somehow. And we’ll always keep supporting.

[@Kay-zee]

I have been down lately because I feel that old world craftsmanship, and the dedication and discipline needed to make such things has disappeared for good. Then Chris comes with this video. Thank you Chris, so much respect for these people. I can't imagine what you felt being in that workshop.

[@tudall]

I've been a member of the Karakuri "Christmas club" for many years. You never know what to expect and _never_ have I been disappointed. I've met a few of these craftsmen and I totally agree with your observations about their skill and humility.

[@ExtremeAnimalRescue]

Absolutely beautiful. A labor of love, both the puzzles and the videos. Continue making art please

[@paintfreek1357]

Those interviews were heartfelt and touching. Watching thier passion for thier craft is truly emotional and moving.

[@pithechaosstar2908]

Dude... you deserve SO much more credit for the amount of effort and production style you put into your videos. I haven't finished yet but I had to pause and give you your flowers. This is a niche video and might not blow up, but you have the makings of someone who can do legitimate documentary style pieces. Don't give up and glad you're feeling better!

[@sueparras6028]

So good to see you back. Can't wait to watch this tonight with my husband. We love watching you solve puzzles etc. Thanks for all of your hard work Chris, please know just how much we appreciate it! ♥️♥️✌🇨🇦😊😊😊

[@taylormeyers8780]

as a woodworker, this as absolutely jaw-dropping. You can't appreciate the amount of time and skill it take to make even the smallest of these items unless you have some experience working with wood. The woodworking skill on display in this video is absolutely next level, and 99% of people that watch this won't appreciate it.

[@stevkyt2374]

I'm an amateur cinematographer and I can't tell you how satisfying it is to be creative even what I produce is nowhere near professional. I also write books, paint and draw and tinker with music. I don't do them for anyone but myself and don't care what people think. Everything we create improves over time and this documentary proves how good you're becoming. Maybe this is your direction in life. I love magic and I love puzzles which is why I watch your channel but I appreciate the effort you make in your intros. If you really enjoy doing them then just do them. People can skip if they want to. Finally, just don't watch comments. Overall they are detrimental to you as a person. You know what you want and no one should tell you otherwise.

[@rachelray1669]

Well now welcome back. Glad your feeling more like yourself and have new content to share.

[@kjs141]

Good to see you back Chris. Looking forward to this.

[@beefy19841192]

This was one of my favorite videos I've seen in months. Japanese craftsmen are some of the most talented people on the planet. I work for a Japan-based company and the engineers I've met from Japan are some of the smartest, nicest people I've ever met. Great job Chris!

[@vagabondsoul1286]

Have to admit what a good friend Wes is, for tagging along and helping film this.

[@Silver-lp6dn]

Regardless of whether or not this video blows up, know that the dedication and passion that went into this video is appreciated. This is truly inspiring and it's amazing to see your genuine love for this niche of woodworking. We're all glad you could take a break for your mental health Chris. Excited to see what you have planned for the future!

[@jeffv3296]

I’m glad you took some time away from making videos and went to Japan. You seem happier, more inspired, mor fulfilled-and as a viewer and fan-I can say that this is perhaps the best video that I have seen of yours. Beautifully done. You allowed us all a window to see that these are not just puzzles-they are true pieces of art with stories behind them. I love how you interviewed each of the craftsmen and allowed them to elaborate on what motivates and drives them. Beautiful stuff.

[@ohadalon]

Chris, after years of showing us and making us fall in love with Japaneese puzzel boxes, you taking us not only inside the places where Karakori puzzel boxes are made, but also inside the minds of the puzzel creators, is like if we wanted to see inside the making of your videos, and instead of giving us a behind the scense video of your studio, instead you showed us a video of your parents' first date, and getting to know why they had you, and seeing how they raised you. This documentary you made was both incredible and amazing to see how a puzzel is truely crated. From Thought to Wood. Thank you.

[@WoodfulProjects]

More than puzzle makers, they are amazing woodworkers with so much precision. People often do not realize what it takes to be so precise with wood. This video brings together people enjoying puzzles and woodworking. Thank you.

[@tommyangelastro3701]

This. Absolutely love this. The deep respect for their craftsmanship of the puzzles and the total respect for the way you are using your platform to highlight what they do. I could have easily gone my whole life and never had the opportunity to see a fraction of what likely goes in to designing and making these beautiful puzzles. But I was lucky enough to follow your channel and you were awesome enough to show me and everyone else. Glad you are back, you’ve been missed.

[@mcneildj]

Had to chuckle when one of the artists called himself a beginner after working there for 7 years. Maybe it's true of other countries artisans as well, but to me it always seemed like a very Japanese mindset that I noticed while living there. Sushi chefs, woodworkers, Ikebana artists; the dedication they have to their craft is amazing. (Also thought the vid was beautifully shot, edited, translated, your questions were great, etc etc 😀Well done!)

[@ronaldstanley4817]

Omg Chris, please please please please don't ever stop making videos. I understand burnout. I understand the need to make new different content. The ones like these stand out from the crowd and personally, give me so much joy to watch. Thank you for everything you do.

[@PeterFreese]

I own about ten Karakuri boxes. The craftsmanship in these boxes is beyond compare. I am a hobbyist woodworker, and the level of precision, artistry, and skill involved in these boxes is so far beyond me that it fills me with awe. Whenever I receive a new Karakuri box, I experience an emotion that I can only describe as joy -- everything from the precise way it is wrapped to the feel and smell of the wood gives me a sense of appreciation, wonder, and delight. Then after solving the boxes, I wonder... "is there something more?". And so often there is. Another way of solving that reveals a second, or even a third secret compartment. Thank you for showcasing the talented craftspeople behind these wonderful boxes!

[@adelsalman]

Just one word - Beautiful! Not only was it heartwarming to see these humble group of ppl talking and showcasing their masterpeices, the way that you've captured them on film....simply mesmerizing! Hats off to you Chris, you're a bona fide cinematographer and director in my eyes!

[@justjeff386]

Awesome man! I was pleasantly surprised to see not only an upload but damn near a documentary on Karakuri at its source! Don't know if making this could possibly have been less stress than your usual videos, but if so, I hope this creates a new avenue for you to feed that monster that doesn't take quite so much out of you.

[@josharmentrout7991]

I might not see every one of your videos, but I'm glad I clicked this one. The passion of these woodworkers is inspirational. This is not only about Karakuri, but there are fundamental lessons everyone can and should learn from these interviews. Chris, you are an amazing person for doing what you do and bringing this message to viewers. I might not do woodworking or slight of hand, but I know I will take the advice given to heart and strive to seek the passion in the things I do. Thank you again for bringing this uplifting video to us all.

[@NewNormac]

Chris, I truly hope I’m not over stepping. I feel like you have not only reconnected to your original WHY, the one that started you down this path. I also feel you have shown great bravery in taking a break and sharing what happening with you. I know that just know that we are all going through something makes it feel less lonely. You added to your WHY and produced a beautiful upload. Thank you so ~Smile oN

[@dalis994]

Wow, I remember you mentioning going to Japan to see the Karakuri people. Really glad you made it.

[@dzymslizzy3641]

Love the little nesting boxes modeled after Matroyoshka Dolls!! What a clever idea!

[@QRZContest]

I am a lifelong fan of these Japanese puzzles and boxes. A few years ago, I was fortunate enough to travel to Japan and visited the Mt Fuji area with a tour group. I wanted to find a way to break away from the group so I could visit a puzzle box store in Hakone. Unfortunately, I was only able to view one of the stores as our tour bus passed it. Thank you for making this video, showing the store, craftsmen, and just what goes into making these puzzles. I finally made the visit through your video. Well done!

[@suketherurouni37]

Chris, this was hands down one of the best travel docu videos I've seen in a long time. Thank you for showing us the inner workings of hard working puzzle makers and the joy they have in creating these works of art. And it also goes without saying that I'm glad to see you taking time off and resting. There's no need for burning yourself out on trying to churn out content. Take care of you! Love your work and looking forward to more in the future (when YOU'RE ready for it!)!

[@leandromachado6114]

I'm speechless, what an amazing job they do! The video and editing also make everything even more special.

[@vichitwood]

this should be entered into a documentary competition, I was absolutely entertained the entire way through, the transitions between the puzzles and the interviews were so well handled! A remarkable return Chris, glad you are back!

[@alanmacdee]

What a delight this was. Such a humble, but incredibly inspiring group of people. What they come up with, and the level of craft that goes into each box blows my mind. This was also beautifully shot and it's great to have you back. Keep doing what you love.

[@Xombie17]

Thank you, Chris. This was absolutely beautiful. You can truly tell they love their work, and so do you.

[@wtriggswtriggs]

Amazing Chris! Thank you for sharing the story of these truly incredible craftsmen. They are each one of a kind, and you fit right in. Glad you enjoyed the well deserved trip. Welcoming you back is easy for us all.

[@LinkerZz]

This is one of the most beautiful pieces you have ever put out, Chris. Thank you so much for that. It was extremely inspiring to watch this and it honestly made my entire day. You are appreciated.

[@charliewaterman816]

Love this. There's all the enjoyment and love of their craft. As well of you being there and being able to make this :)

[@jakeshac]

Absolutely stunning Chris. The attention to detail, respect, and genuine gratitude from this video is spectacular. Well done. We can see your heart in this and that is refreshing from most of the stuff on KZbin.

[@HendrikNaToR]

What an absolute beautiful video. After watching your last video talking about everything it is hard not to see similarities when they speak of making a product that is more difficult to make but is more exiting than making the same product that has been done before that is easy and will sell. It is truly inspiring watching someone that is passionate about their product and to see the process they go through to make that product a reality, regardless if that product is a Puzzle box or a KZbin video. Thank you for this and all of your videos!

[@Nezrak]

I love this video. Thank you for making it ❤ I don't watch as much your puzzle solving videos because I don't want to see the solutions, but seeing the behind the scenes was awesome. Thank you for asking questions about their design process.

[@therighteousdom6932]

This was an absolutely incredible documentary about these puzzles and their makers. I absolutely love to see how passionate they are with what they do, creating the idea for something and it taking 8 years of creating other puzzles, watching others and learning to create a puzzle is just so astounding. Amazing work as always Chris, let this not be the last mini-doc style video you do because this was amazing.

[@Julian-is6gb]

This man is a master filmmaker at heart. Amazing work and an eye for cinematography that makes these videos a joy to watch. Thank you Chris!

[@robincampbell2877]

The videography is amazing🔥 felt so immersed in every scene, really enjoyed watching

[@wesleytyrer5222]

Great to see you back, love your work. I’m glad you had a chance to get out of the space you were in and to enjoy the world a little. Thank you for sharing this adventure.

[@CraigJarchow]

Glad your content is back. Did an amazing job on this one! Keep doing what you love.

[@scottsmith4315]

Thanks Chris. I’m a woodworker and I’ve thought about trying something like this. Now I think I’m not nearly skilled enough. Of course I’m used to making cabinets and furniture where close enough is good enough. There is no room for anything except perfection in the puzzle box creation or replication. So amazing! What great men too. I felt an instant like for every one of them.

[@killedbykrimzon8793]

Brother.. Way to find your way man, i am SO proud of you for recognizing where you were mentally with your channel and life in general i would assume, taking a step back to look it all over , and then having the courage to get out and find what you need. I hope you personally found what you needed, but as a fan i feel like you did just that. much love buddy THANK YOU

[@cohlinn]

This is so amazing! Thank you for sharing this. I loved your puzzle solving videos. But I love this peek behind the puzzles, at the people, and the places, and the thoughts that went to the creation of those puzzles.

[@jheizer2467]

THAT WAS AMAZING...so glad you got to experience that and now I know what goes into all the puzzles I have in my collection. Thanks for the sharing that moment with us all! We know you needed a break and this video made up for all the Wednesdays I didn't see you. :) Thanks again!

[@thesadclown7107]

I've vicariously been solving puzzles through your channel and always thought what it would be like to be at the place where these ideas are born and sculpted. Seeing this puzzle box of imagination itself, I was in awe staring at my screen, I can only imagine how you must have felt being able to walk around the place you have a huge connection to. Happy you got to experience this and thank you for documenting for the rest of us!

[@OhHeyFergy]

This was incredible! The passion and commitment they have for their craft is inspiring.

[@donttricktheunicorn]

What a work of art this entire video was. I pray that you get the recognition you deserve.

[@michaelbaerg5582]

Thank you so much for making this vid. It is so touching to see the love and effort that goes into making these wonderful works of art!

[@ChromeVader]

This is a captivating video, Chris. It's re-inspired me to pick up my own puzzle box designs and try to complete one or two of them. Some day I hope to be in a position financially where I can design and build puzzle boxes on a regular basis, as well as furniture with hidden compartments. I think the only thing better than being able to watch this incredible video with the people who make such beautiful things would be being able to actually be there. And that is a joy that you have now had, and I'm so thankful that you were able to share a piece of it with us in this video. It is one of my dreams to design and build a puzzle box worthy of sending you to experience, as you and your channel have introduced me to a passion I didn't know I would have before.

[@DanceintheRaine666]

I urge you to invest TIME into your passion and work on projects which inspire you. I lack the wood-working skills to do so, but my love for hidden compartments has motivated me to both SEEK OUT and procure hand crafted furniture with such hidden compartments... secret drawers add so much to an already beautiful piece of artistry. I have also created objects in various media which have hidden compartments themselves...and integrated a hidden compartment when my friend and contractor sought out a used but "beautiful wooden door with true divided light" to retrofit in a doorway which previously had no door. A medical crisis caused me to move into our living room and I sought more privacy, so asked him to help me by sourcing a door which would fit the opening, as his work has him haunting such items as are salvaged from old buildings which have been destroyed rather than preserved....and I was willing to wait for something BEAUTIFUL. He was a tad concerned as the door he presented to me was 8 inches too short for the opening...and began to suggest options to disguise this fact. I was EXCITED and asked him if he could not apply moldings and a pediment above the door which was HINGED on the INTERIOR of the room, such that there is now a SECRET hidden compartment in that space. He was DELIGHTED and EXCITED to undertake this project and he designed a BEAUTIFUL and UTTERLY invisible compartment. For my part, I urged him to take photos of his work such that he could suggest such a solution to another client. He was hesitant to ask my permission as the idea was mine....but I insisted he repeat the design for whomsoever loved the idea...and I gifted him with additional ideas I have for my cabin...and he was very excited about bringing such ideas to fruition in that structure: a bespoke log cabin of my own design on our boat access only lake front property. The aforementioned illness have delayed these plans....but I'm finally recovering and I'm excited to return to the cabin and those projects. ❤

[@xyonmckell]

Welcome back. You got me into Karakuri (and the pictured Trojan horse is my favorite box) and I can't wait to watch this feature on them.

[@tylerclark5829]

This video was absolutely incredible Chris. Been watching your channel for almost a year now. Weekly puzzle videos have become a staple for me. To see the craftsmanship and faces behind some of the most intricate puzzles you've solved had to been an incredible experience for you.

[@nikkiepoe7256]

Just got this after the check in. I hope to see more videos like this! Seeing where they come from, learning the why behind some of the puzzles you've done, and understanding the creativity behind the craft is fascinating. Sending all the good energy your way, and I look forward to seeing more videos from you. This was so cool!

[@killasonic29]

Absolutely love the culture and passion for the craft of these artists work, what a great video. Also wanted to mention, really happy for you to be so open about your situation and taking a break for yourself. I've loved all your videos since before you started maining puzzles and its been a blast. Whatever you pursue next if you move on from puzzles or stay with them, I know its something you'll smash and excel in, Chris. Keep up the amazing work, my man. ❤️ Edit: I cannot express how great it was to watch you wow all of these fine artists with some of your magic as well. Much love out to you, Chris! Hope to get another one like this at some point in time!

[@chrismuramatsu6600]

Thank you so much for bringing us this utterly fascinating look behind the scenes at Kurakuri Creation Group and to share your new appreciation and perspective of their puzzles.

[@christinahall3d]

Thank you so much for this video. You got me hooked on Karakuri last year and was excited to join this year when memberships opened back up. I'm planning a trip to Hakone specifically to visit them so thanks for showing this!

[@_bluephoenix_]

This was so amazing to watch. From the humble creators to your childlike wonder and enthusiasm.. seeing pieces you've solved in the past (the coffee cup for eg) and the intricacy of so many more is awesome! So glad you not only had a much deserved break but, that you spent it immersing yourself into a world that you hold dear and may have forgotten the beauty of for a time. I hope this trip has renewed your love and passion and reminded you why you started the channel and that things worth investing in takes time, patience and passion.

[@Vinzord]

This was a truly amazing video. It was captivating, inspirational and beautiful. Your love for their craft shines through in every frame and turns a simple documentary into an emotional journey. I'm glad you could get so close to something you're so passionate about. Also, I've never seen so many things you could put your weed in.

[@shoe43]

very grateful for this insight into the incredible craftsmanship that goes into these boxes, and i like this documentary style of videos! glad to see you back to making content as well ❤

[@kissmemonster]

loved this! showed your love and passion for puzzles. you are such a nice bloke. the camera work, editing, music choices were on point. would love to see more of this content.

[@davidgildegomezperez4364]

I love that you are back, also that you did so by showing the incredible craftmanship of this impressive artists!

[@andymitts251]

I absolutely LOVE this video! I like watching puzzle solves, but the way they are made is just as interesting to me. Your documentary style just seems so natural for you too!

[@helenattree5279]

Looking forward to you new content, happy to see you back, Japan looks amazing 😊

[@r.ouellette6192]

This was so beautiful to watch, I'm so glad I got to see this video you posted. I started watching you before covid because I loved the puzzles you'd get and complete. This is by far my favorite video in your inventory... The documentary style was fantastic I hope your well and this revitalized something in you.

[@Andrew_McGrath]

Incredible work on their part. And excellent filming and story telling Chris! This was so much fun to watch! I plan to visit Japan in a few years. This is definitely on the list!

[@postandfly]

You're back, and that's great news

[@asphault0074]

So much inspiring and passionate craftsmen. Its wonderful to experience the process and emotions that are engraved in their crafts

[@MrKadzima]

So great to see that this was something you did during your break. Your videos introduced me to Karikuri and I’ve been a club member ever since. Thank you!

[@artasinn]

this is so good, omg! I hope you do more of these in the future! I really like your editing style for these cinematic type things. Very cool Doc!

[@howzk4218]

How awesome to see the creative process and dedication 🎉

[@heavenlystone8439]

This was such a wholesome video, I really enjoyed every second of it ❤ So glad to see you again. I'm glad you took time away to focus on you❤

[@Jeremy_Adams]

Thank you for making this video Chris. It’s amazing to see how much love, care and thought goes into each and every puzzle. From this I will have a new appreciation for each puzzle I watch you open!

[@alilbitalexis]

This was breathtaking to watch. The time and effort you took creating this cinematic gem did a phenomenal job of showcasing and highlighting the brilliant craftsmanship behind a seemingly sacred culture that (like you mentioned) many of us take for granted. I'm glad you were able to gain some perspective and also share that perspective with your audience in such a respectful and captivating way. It sounds like your mission was accomplished whether it was purely to revitalize your mental health or simply continuing to share another aspect of your passion. Either way, beautiful work. Thank you!

[@steglive]

Wow! Awesome film. So interesting and immersive and beautifully filmed and edited. Loved meeting the artists and craftspeople behind the puzzles. Thanks for creating and sharing.