Exploring Japanese pottery is a fascinating journey into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there are many places across Japan where you can see and make art.
One of the best ways to appreciate Japanese pottery is visiting the towns and studios where these beautiful pieces are made.
⚱️ Try your hand at Japanese Pottery:
1) Mashiko Town, Tochigi
Mashiko Town in Tochigi Prefecture is famed for its clay pottery.
Located about 100 km north of Tokyo, it’s a spot brimming with history and culture.
You’ll find over 150 kilns here, each making unique Mashiko-yaki pottery.
These pieces often feature simple, elegant designs.
The town also hosts pottery markets in spring and autumn.
Even if you’re a beginner, you can join workshops to learn how to hand-form or use a potter’s wheel.
The local artisans are friendly and eager to share their craft.
2) Koishiwara Ware Village, Fukuoka
In Toho Village, Fukuoka, you’ll find the heart of Koishiwara ware.
This place is loaded with ceramic shops, each showing off its styles.
You can see and buy beautiful pottery made by skilled local artists.
Koishiwara ware is known for its unique designs.
3) Bizen Pottery Village, Okayama
Bizen Pottery Village in Imbe, Okayama, is a must-visit if you love traditional Japanese crafts.
This charming town is known for its distinctive Bizen ware, a pottery dating back to the 6th century.
Wander through the village and find pottery studios, shops, and workshops.
Artisans work with clay and fire their pieces at high temperatures without glazes.
You can make your own Bizen ware at one of the many pottery schools.
It’s a fantastic way to connect with the local culture and take home a unique souvenir.
4) Tajimi, Gifu
Tajimi is a charming town in Gifu known for its rich pottery history.
Just a short trip from Nagoya, it’s a must-visit for pottery enthusiasts.
In Tajimi, you’ll find Minoyaki, a type of pottery crafted here for centuries.
Shops selling unique ceramics fill the town’s streets.
One of the highlights is Ceramic Park Mino, where you can admire beautiful pottery and make your own.
The park offers a hands-on experience that’s fun for all ages.
5) Shigaraki Pottery Village, Shiga
Shigaraki Pottery Village is in Shiga.
It’s a great spot for pottery fans and curious travellers.
When you stroll through the village, you’ll find shops lined with beautiful pottery pieces.
These aren’t just any ceramics; Shigaraki is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, famous for its unique clay and traditional techniques.
Keep an eye out for the whimsical tanuki (raccoon dog) statues.
Many gardens and stores across Japan display these comical figures symbolizing Shigaraki pottery.
The Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park is a must-see.
Here, you can view exhibitions, learn about the pottery’s history, and even try making your piece.
6) Tamba Pottery, Hyogo
Artisans in Hyogo Prefecture have been making Tamba Pottery for over 800 years.
This type of pottery, also known as Tamba-yaki, is famous for its rustic and simple look.
Its history goes back to the Heian era of Japan.
In and around Tambasasayama City, you’ll find this traditional craft everywhere.
The area is home to the oldest climbing kiln in Japan, the Nobori-gama.
Known as the Snake Kiln, it is over 120 years old and still in use today.
Visiting Tamba Ware Town lets you see this pottery style’s rich history and tradition.
The village is a Japanese heritage site and offers a unique glimpse into the lives of local potters.
You can also meet and chat with these creative artists, getting insights into their craft.
7) Hagi, Yamaguchi
Hagi is a quaint town on the western shore of Yamaguchi Prefecture.
It is famous for its unique pottery style, Hagiyaki.
Hagiyaki dates back about 400 years. It started when the local lord, Mōri Terumoto, brought Korean potters to the area.
These potters’ influence is still visible in the beautiful and earthy designs.
When you visit Hagi, you can experience this traditional craft first-hand.
Local potters offer workshops where you can create your pottery piece.
It’s a great way to connect with the art form.
The town itself is charming and full of history.
Walking around, you’ll see many shops and studios displaying Hagiyaki.
It’s a must-see for any pottery enthusiast.
