This time, we would like to introduce the production area of Japanese tableware.
When you look in a store or online store and say, “I want to buy some vessels,
Have you ever wondered why?
This XX is often the place where the pottery is made, the place of origin. Each region has its own unique characteristics, such as simple or gorgeous, earthy...etc.
Therefore, in this issue, we will introduce the characteristics and history of each pottery production area, as well as information on popular potteries and pottery fairs.
If you find an area of production you are interested in or would like to visit, please read on.
Popular regions in recent years
Mino ware
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Mino wareis the general term for ceramics produced in the Tono region of southern Gifu Prefecture.
The area around present-day Toki City, Tajimi City, Kasahara Town, and Mizunami City is known as a production center.
While there are many vessels that are unique in the way they are made and painted, Mino ware has no such special style.
The depth of nostalgia to meet any request has enhanced the craftsmen's skills, and products are made that fit the modern dining table.
It is said that Gifu Prefecture is responsible for 50% of the domestic share of ceramics in modern times, so there may be some Mino ware vessels in your home.
History
The history of Mino ware is very old, dating back more than 1,300 years.
Originally developed from “Sue ware” introduced from the Korean Peninsula, the pottery was produced in different forms, such as “Yamachawan” in the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, and “Setoguro,” “Kizeto,” and “Shino” in the Azuchi-Momoyama period.
After World War I, Mino produced many ceramic artists, and today it is the center of activities of ceramic artists who were inspired and influenced by them.
Popular Mino ware
Chrysanthemum Series
The Kikka series is simple and sophisticated Japanese tableware that is easy to use.
The two monotone colors, white and black, make it easy to use for a long time without getting tired of it.
Shinogi Series
The vessels, characterized by their natural and gentle atmosphere, each have a different look depending on the degree of glaze applied.
Every time you use this series, you will learn a new aspect of it and become more and more absorbed in it.
KEI Series
A lean form. Smooth, smooth, and gentle texture.
The rusty glaze spreading to the rim.
The vivid colors of the kei series with their deep and subdued texture will enhance any dish.
Arco Series
The simplicity of the product is appealing, matching naturally with any dining table.
It comes in two colors, silver-brown and black matte, both with depth.
The large round plates are easy to use for one-plate dishes, and you can easily serve stylish dishes like those on a café menu.
ORLO Series
Indigo blue with a deep oceanic feel and brown with a nourishing flavor.
The warm lines that give the impression of handcraftsmanship are impressive.
The pasta plate comes together into a good-looking dish thanks to the large rim.
Other Mino ware products can be found here.
Pottery Fairs and Events
Toki City Mino Ceramic Ware Festival
The Toki City Mino Ceramic Festival is one of the three major pottery festivals in Japan.
It is held every year around Golden Week in May for about three days in Toki City in the Tono region of Gifu Prefecture.
This popular pottery market has more than 300 stalls, offering a wide variety of porcelain products. Many people from inside and outside of the prefecture visit the market, partly because they can find porcelain at a lower price than usual.
If you are planning to visit the Toki Mino Pottery Festival, please read this article for more information.
[Toki Minoyaki Festival 2024] Complete guide! Basic information and artist introduction
You can read more about Mino ware in this article if you are interested.
Related article list
A day where you can feel the commitment to Mino ware, which evolves while preserving 100 years of tradition [Journey around utensils vol.4]
[Mino ware bowls/donburi] 10 recommended lineups
Shigaraki ware
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Shigaraki ware is made in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, and is characterized by its simple warmth.
It is one of the “Six Old Kilns of Japan,” six representative production centers where pottery production has continued from the Middle Ages to the present.
One of the characteristics of Shigaraki pottery is that large-sized ceramics such as raccoon dog figurines are produced, and the secret lies in the Shigaraki clay.
The secret lies in the Shigaraki clay. When high-quality clay from Lake Biwa is mixed with several types of clay, a strong clay is produced.
This is the reason why large ceramics such as raccoon dogs and brazier can be made.
History
Shigaraki ware is said to have originated in the Nara period (742), when Emperor Shomu had tiles fired for the Shigaraki Palace built by him.
In the Muromachi period (1333-1573), with the establishment of the tea ceremony, the wabi and sabi textures of the tiles were loved by many tea masters.
In the Meiji period (1868-1912), fire-resistant Shigaraki-ware braziers became popular, accounting for as much as 90% of the domestic market share.
Popular Kilns and Artists
Koichi Furuya (Furutani Seitosho)
Mr. Furuya is the successor to Furutani Seitosho.
The charm of his pottery lies in the simple and gentle expression of the clay he uses.
The pottery is fired twice at a high temperature called “honyaki” so that it can be used in a microwave oven.
You can rest assured that the quality is durable enough to be used for a long time.
Otani Pottery (Tetsuya and Momoko Otani)
Tetsuya and Momoko Otani make pottery at Otani Pottery.
The white porcelain vessels created by Tetsuya have a simple yet sophisticated form that is beautiful and enchanting.
His works, created from small ideas encountered in daily life, will gently accompany you in your daily life.
Other Shigaraki ware products can be found here.
Pottery Fairs and Events
Shigaraki Pottery Festival
The Shigaraki Pottery Festival held every fall is a fun, festival-like pottery market where local gourmet foods and other items are sold.
The big sale is one of the most popular events, and some items are sold at a discount of 20 to 50 percent off the regular price at the stores.
Shigaraki Artists' Market
Exhibit:Shigaraki Artists' Market
The Shigaraki Writers' Market is an annual GW event that focuses on the sale of works by artists, and the scale of the event seems to be growing larger every year.
Not only pottery, but also handmade goods are sold, so you may be able to find what you want there as well!
If you want to know more about Shigaraki Writers' Market, please read this summary article.
[Shigaraki Writer's City 2023] Complete guide! Basic information, featured authors, etc.
You can read more about Shigaraki ware in this article if you are interested.
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[Shigaraki ware mugs and soup cups] 7 selections of utensils that are suitable for daily life
Pottery walk in Shigaraki, the town of tanuki
Mashiko ware
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Mashiko ware is the pottery of Mashiko Town, Tochigi Prefecture.
Many people are probably familiar with Mashiko pottery because of the famous Mashiko Pottery Market event.
Mashiko ware is characterized by its chubby appearance with thickness and weight.
The clay produced in the prefecture contains a lot of air bubbles, which makes it unsuitable for fine work and inevitably thicker.
This is what gives Mashiko ware its characteristic chubby, warm texture.
In addition, the brown or yellowish clay and the glazes made in Mashiko are a perfect match!
The colors of the ame and celadon glazes create a richly flavored finish.
History
It all started in the late Edo period when Otsuka Keizaburo, who had trained in Kasama pottery in Ibaraki, found suitable clay for pottery in Mashiko Town and selected it as the site for his ceramic art.
The name became well known after Shoji Hamada, famous for his folk art movement, moved to the area.
The main products are daily necessities such as pots and earthenware bottles.
Because of its proximity to the Tokyo metropolitan area and its good location for distribution, the area developed rapidly.
It is said that hundreds of potters, both domestic and foreign, have gathered here since the old days because of the “don't refuse anyone who comes” spirit.
Popular Kilns and Artists
Tsukamoto
Founded in 1864, the kiln has a history of more than 150 years and is also called the largest kiln in Mashiko.
In addition to the kiln factory, there is a gallery, hands-on workshops, and a restaurant on the vast site surrounded by nature, where visitors can enjoy “seeing, buying, playing, and eating.
Yoshizawa Kiln
Yoshizawa Kiln makes products with a focus on “using” vessels.
One of the most popular points of their products is that they are very cute, yet durable and easy to use in daily life, being microwave and dishwasher-safe.
They also have a stall at the Mashiko Pottery Fair, which is very popular every year, and admission is limited to those with numbered tickets.
You can see more Mashiko pottery products here.
Pottery Fairs and Events
Ikuko pottery market
The market is held twice a year, in spring and fall (Golden Week in spring and around November 3 in fall).
The pottery market, which began in 1966, has been held more than 100 times and is popular with 600,000 visitors annually.
The market is easily accessible from Tokyo, and bus tours are also available.
Of course, you can also drive to the market, but it is recommended to check the route and parking lot in advance as traffic jams are expected.
If you are planning to visit Mashiko Pottery Market, please read this article for more details.
You can read more about Mashiko ware in this article if you are interested.
Related article list
Basic knowledge of [Mashiko ware] Introducing its characteristics and popular potteries!
I want to feel warm and plump. 9 selections of Mashiko ware mugs
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Mashiko Pottery Market - Who are the most popular artists?
Tobe ware
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Tobe ware is ceramic ware produced mainly in Tobe Town, Ehime Prefecture, which is said to be the best pottery village in Shikoku.
Tobe ware is characterized by its thick, chunky form and indigo-colored blue underglaze blue on white porcelain.
Compared to other porcelain, Tobe ware is more durable and resistant to cracks and chips, and is loved as ceramics for daily use.
History
Its beginnings are said to date back to around 1700 during the Edo period.
It was developed by the Dashu clan because of the availability of raw materials for porcelain.
Although production declined during the recession of the late Taisho and early Showa periods, it later recovered, partly due to the folk art boom.
It also received high acclaim from Yanagi Muneyoshi, who promoted the folk craft movement, and others.
The area has been designated as a national traditional craft, and currently there are about 100 potteries that continue to produce unique works of art while preserving tradition.
Popular Kilns
Tosai-gama Nagato Pottery Studio
This pottery studio is run by a family of three.
Each member has their own style:Tetsuya Nagato focuses on blue and white porcelain Junko Nagato proposes new styles of Tobe ware Hiromu Nagato creates with traditional techniques while incorporating free expression
Mori Tobo
Established in 1970, Mori Tobo has been creating pottery across three generations while preserving tradition.
They create tableware that makes dining more enjoyable, focusing on practicality and fun while maintaining their unique worldview.
Satsuki-gama
Satsuki-gama was opened in 2017 by Taro Nakata and his wife Chiharu.
Taro's style combines traditional elements with modern sensibilities, while Chiharu's work is delicate and cute.
Though their styles differ, their pieces harmonize beautifully when displayed together.
Other Tobe ware products can be found here.
Pottery Markets & Events
Tobe Ware Festival
The Tobe Ware Festival is held in spring (April) and autumn (November).
About 70 kilns participate in direct sales at the venue, attracting around 100,000 visitors, making it a popular pottery market.
[Summary of Tobe ware] Popular potteries, characteristics, and information on pottery markets
Historical Tobe ware has become more attractive with the change of generations [Journey through utensils vol.2]
Koishiwara Ware
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Koishiwara ware, the root of Onta ware and known as its "brother kiln," is produced in Toho Village (formerly Koishiwara Village), Fukuoka Prefecture.
It was established slightly earlier than Onta ware and has continued for about 350 years. Currently, there are over 50 kilns.
While maintaining traditional techniques like Tobikanna and Hakeme like Onta ware, they incorporate designs more suited to modern dining.
History
In 1665, the second generation of Takatori ware in Fukuoka Prefecture discovered quality clay in the Koishiwara district and began producing tea ceremony ceramics.
Later, when the third lord of the Fukuoka domain invited potters from Imari to teach porcelain-making techniques, and through exchanges with Takatori kilns, the foundation of modern Koishiwara ware was established.
During the folk craft boom, more people visited the village seeking Koishiwara ware.
As hereditary kilns began accepting new talent, the number of kilns grew to over 50, and traditional techniques have been passed down to the present.
Popular Kilns
Omei Kamamoto
With the motto "To create pieces that become more endearing with use and make daily life more enjoyable," Onimaru Omei and his son Naoyuki craft pottery daily.
While carefully preserving traditional decorative techniques using Koishiwara clay, they also incorporate new ideas like dot patterns and matte textures, reflecting their innovative approach to creating tableware that enhances users' dining experiences.
Keishu-gama
Creating pieces that showcase the best qualities of Takatori ware while incorporating playful, unique forms, Keishu-gama applies traditional Koishiwara patterns like Hakeme and Tobikanna to unique motifs such as birds, acorns, and cups.
Moriyama Jitsuzan-gama
Moriyama Jitsuzan-gama produces Koishiwara ware suited to modern living while capturing the natural fluctuations inherent in their materials.
Their work maintains tradition while achieving a modern atmosphere with artistic beauty.
Other Koishiwara ware products can be found here.
Pottery Markets & Events
Koishiwara Ware Autumn Folk Pottery Village Festival
All 50 kilns in the village open simultaneously, offering their works at special prices.
The Koishiwara Ware Traditional Industry Hall hosts various events, including fresh rice ball sales and pottery painting experiences, creating a lively atmosphere.
Arita Ware
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Arita ware refers to porcelain made in and around Arita Town, Saga Prefecture.
It became widely used after the Meiji period and is now commonly found in Japanese households.
Its distinctive features include translucent white porcelain decorated with cobalt blue patterns (called gosu) and vibrant overglaze red designs.
Due to its durability and strength, it has recently become popular as everyday tableware.
History
Porcelain production began in the early 17th century when porcelain stone was discovered in Arita Town.
This is considered Japan's first porcelain production, and it has been widely used for tableware and crafts for over 400 years.
By the mid-17th century, it gained popularity as fine art and as gifts for the nobility.
The magnificent Arita ware was exported worldwide throughout history and was highly praised by European nobility.
Popular Kilns & Series
Koyo-gama
They produce a wide range of household tableware, from blue and white porcelain to red designs and glazed pieces, featuring simple and soft forms.
With the desire to make Arita ware more accessible to younger generations, they aim to transform Arita ware from special occasion pieces to everyday items.
This philosophy is reflected in their price range and designs.
Imari Hyotan (Gourd Series)
The gourd shape, which widens toward the bottom, has traditionally been considered auspicious.
It's said that a set of six gourds serves as a charm for good health and longevity.
These charming gourd-themed dishes and chopstick rests are perfect for celebratory occasions such as birthdays and longevity celebrations.
UTSUWABI Special Order Sometsuke (Blue and White)
Featuring nostalgic patterns such as chrysanthemum crests and shippo (seven treasures), these pieces are made with translucent, slightly bluish white porcelain decorated with fine brush patterns.
Suitable for both daily use and special occasions.
Other Arita ware products can be found here.
Pottery Markets & Events
Arita Pottery Market
The Arita Pottery Market is held annually around Golden Week in Arita Town, Saga Prefecture.
With an overwhelming number of works on display, it attracts 1.2 million visitors annually.
If you want to know more about the Arita Pottery Market, please read this summary article.
2023 - All about the Arita Pottery Market
For more information about Arita ware, please read this article if you are interested.
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Yachimun
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Yachimun is the Okinawan dialect word for "pottery."
It refers to pottery items like tea bowls, rice bowls, and plates still commonly used in Okinawan households today.
Many pieces are characteristically thick and sturdy, with a solid presence that suits large plates heaped with food.
The most distinctive feature of Yachimun is its vivid glazes and dynamic patterns.
Colors include cobalt blue reminiscent of Okinawa's blue seas, green (augusta) suggesting palm trees and tropical plants, and brown (amber) which is often paired with these colors.
History
The origins of Yachimun date back to 1600, during the era of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
In 1682, King Shotei of the Ryukyu Kingdom gathered potters from throughout the region to Tsuboya, establishing "Tsuboya ware" which developed as it was used for tributes to the royal court.
During the Meiji period, the influx of inexpensive and durable porcelain from mainland Japan threatened Tsuboya ware's existence.
However, the "Mingei Movement" around 1926 recognized its beauty as daily items, and craftsmen like Soetsu Yanagi, Shoji Hamada, and Kanjiro Kawai introduced it to mainland Japan, spreading its popularity nationwide.
Popular Kilns
Yomitan Kita-gama
source:fukugido (Instagram)
Located in Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, Kita-gama is a communal kiln owned by four master potters: Masataka Miyagi, Kyoji Matsuda, Yoneji Matsuda, and Masamori Yonaha.
Their "Yomitan-yaki" fired in traditional climbing kilns is modern and powerful, with beautiful glaze coloring.
Tojin-gama
Tojin-gama's works feature flowing arabesque patterns.
They also produce pieces with red designs, giving an elegant impression.
The kiln was established by Masakazu Soma after his apprenticeship at Tsuboya's "Ikutouen."
Togei Komagata
Each artist's interpretation of arabesque patterns creates different impressions.
Their pieces include tea bowls with gosu (cobalt blue) and amber colors featuring deigo (Indian coral tree) patterns, and charming small toothpick holders.
Issui-gama
Known for vivid blues and precisely drawn circular and grid patterns, they specialize in rectangular plates with striking designs and color usage.
Other Yachimun products can be found here.
Pottery Markets & Events
Moon Beach Okinawa Island-wide Yachimun Market
Held annually around March, this is Okinawa's largest pottery market.
Potters from throughout Okinawa gather, from young artists to historic kilns, showcasing their distinctive works.
Yomitan Yachimun Market
Held annually in December near Yachimun no Sato, this market attracts about 20,000 visitors over two days with its special prices.
Popular kilns' items often sell out quickly after opening, so planning ahead is recommended.
For more information about Yachimun, please read this article if you are interested.
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Other Major Pottery Regions
Onta Ware
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Onta ware is a traditional pottery that has been preserved for 300 years in the mountains of Hita City, Oita Prefecture.
The technique is passed down through hereditary succession, from parent to child.
Currently, there are only 9 kilns that trace their lineage to the original founding.
Its distinctive features include modern and interesting geometric patterns. When held, you can feel the warmth and thickness characteristic of handmade earthenware.
History
The pottery began in 1705 during the mid-Edo period when Jubei Kuroki invited a potter from Koishiwara ware to Onta Sarayama and built a climbing kiln.
This is why it's referred to as a "brother kiln" to Koishiwara ware. In fact, Onta ware's roots can be traced back to Koishiwara ware.
Onta ware, which had been quietly produced in a secluded mountain village, gained sudden fame when Soetsu Yanagi visited in 1931 and introduced it nationwide as the "world's finest folk pottery."
In 1970, it was designated as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan.
Recommended Pieces
8-inch Plate with Tobikanna Pattern
This 8-inch plate features the distinctive dotted pattern of "Tobikanna."
The enchanting Tobikanna pattern mysteriously complements a wide range of cuisines, from Japanese to Western to Chinese and ethnic foods. With its moderate weight and stability, it's durable and practical, making it an essential piece for daily dining.
Other Onta ware products can be viewed here.
Banko Ware
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Banko ware, produced in Yokkaichi City, Mie Prefecture, is famous for its clay pots due to its heat-resistant clay.
It holds the number one position in domestic clay pot production, accounting for 70-80% of the national market share.
The pots slowly conduct heat and maintain temperature well, gradually drawing out the umami and sweetness of ingredients.
Many pieces are compatible with microwave and direct flame heating, making them well-suited to modern lifestyles.
History
It was started by Rozan Nunami, a wealthy merchant from Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture, during the mid-Edo period. The name "Banko" comes from the seal he used to mark his works.
During the Meiji period, it began to be exported overseas, expanding production.
Although the kilns suffered significant damage during World War II, they recovered quickly. Today, there are over 100 kilns centered in Yokkaichi City and Komono Town.
Popular Kilns & Pieces
Kosen-gama
Features a Japanese modern style with the warmth characteristic of earthenware.
While maintaining sophisticated designs, they create pieces that work well in everyday dining.
Their pieces come in various sizes and color variations, making them enjoyable to mix and match with different dishes.
Stack Gratin Dish (Black, Heat-resistant)
A heat-resistant gratin dish that can be used with direct flame, oven, and microwave.
With convenient handles for easy removal from the oven and a simple, modern design, it's perfect for serving hot dishes directly at the table.
Other Banko ware products can be found here.
Tokoname Ware
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Tokoname ware, produced around Tokoname City in Aichi Prefecture, is counted as one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns.
It's best known for its "shudei" (red clay) teapots with their distinctive reddish-brown color.
The red brick exterior of the renovated Tokyo Station also uses Tokoname ware tiles.
The pottery ranges from everyday items like teapots and tableware to maneki-neko (lucky cats) and tiles, characterized by its wide variety of products that closely align with our daily lives.
History
Holding the oldest history among the Six Ancient Kilns, it began during the late Heian period when kilns were used to produce plates and other pottery, spreading throughout the Chita Peninsula.
During the Kamakura period, production expanded to include larger items like jars.
In the Muromachi period, kilns were concentrated in Tokoname, primarily producing large items that were distributed nationwide through Tokoname Port.
With modernization in the Meiji period, production expanded to include architectural ceramics.
Popular Kilns & Pieces
Kosui Toen
Their teapots have a quiet yet elegant presence, like those you might find in a traditional tea shop.
The clay surface, made from fired "udei" (crow clay), develops a more lustrous flavor with use, and the teapot gradually absorbs tea fragrances, enabling the brewing of more delicious tea.
Ishido Togei
While inheriting traditional Tokoname ware techniques, Ishido Togei focuses on creating unprecedented works.
They constantly consider ease of use, handling, and lightness in their pottery making, incorporating their own personality and the joy of pottery into their designs.
Each piece is unique with its own distinctive character.
Kutani Ware
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Kutani ware, a representative Japanese overglaze porcelain from Ishikawa Prefecture, is famous worldwide as "Japan Kutani."
It features brilliant designs using the Kutani Five Colors (red, blue, yellow, purple, and navy blue).
The beautiful painting-like patterns are created with overglaze enamels, and the pottery has high artistic value with many collectors in Western countries.
History
It began in the early Edo period when porcelain stone was discovered in the gold mines of Kutani Village.
Maeda Toshitsune of the Kaga domain ordered the establishment of kilns in Kutani, and his retainer Goto Saijiro learned pottery techniques in Arita and built the kilns.
Influenced by the beautiful decorative style of the million-koku Kaga culture, unique stylistic porcelain began to be produced.
The pottery was displayed at the 1873 Vienna World Exhibition, captivating European audiences and rapidly spreading Kutani ware's reputation worldwide.
Popular Kilns & Pieces
Seiko-gama
Based in Nomi City, Ishikawa Prefecture, they began as Kutani ware painters in the early Taisho period and now handle all processes from transfer paper production to painting.
Their work is characterized by vivid glass-like colors produced by their original Japanese pigments.
They are a representative Kutani ware kiln producing a wide range of styles from traditional patterns to character designs.
Hare Kutani
"Kutani ware for your special days."
Born from a desire to deliver cheerful living through pieces that bring joy when used, they combine traditional Kutani Japanese pigments and techniques with contemporary designs and shapes to create new Kutani ware.
Other kutani ware products can be found here.
Seto Ware
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Seto ware, produced primarily in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture, is unique in Japan for producing both pottery and porcelain.
It's said that "there's nothing that can't be made in Seto," reflecting the diverse range of pottery produced there.
For pottery, it's known for glazed decorations represented by "Akazu ware," a nationally designated traditional craft.
For porcelain, it's characterized by beautiful blue patterns using "gosu" pigment, as represented by "Seto Sometsuke ware."
History
It began in the late Heian period with the production of ash-glazed pottery (primitive ash-glazed pottery where natural ash served as glaze).
From the Kamakura to Muromachi periods, it became the only region in Japan to distribute glazed pottery nationwide.
In the late Edo period, Seto began porcelain production, and its porcelain technology rapidly developed, surpassing pottery production.
During the Meiji period, development and production of export ceramics progressed, and like Kutani ware, participation in world exhibitions brought the latest Western technology while opening new overseas markets.
Conclusion
In this article, we've comprehensively introduced pottery regions from across Japan, including their characteristics, history, and popular kilns.
We hope you've found regions that interest you and places you'd like to visit.
We're glad if this information about pottery regions has been helpful to you.
UTUWABI - Enjoy pottery markets at home