Mashiko ware, a pottery from Mashiko Town, Tochigi Prefecture.
The Mashiko Pottery Fair event is famous, so many people probably know about it.
Mashiko ware is characterized by its thickness and weight, giving it a plump appearance.
The first thing you need to know about Mashiko ware is its history, characteristics, and pottery.
For those who are planning to go to Mashiko, we will also tell you about Mashiko Pottery Market and tourist information!
You can also view the Mashiko ware that we carry in our store and the works of the artists exhibiting at the Mashiko Pottery Market here.
What is Mashiko ware?
The history of Mashiko ware that you should know
Mashiko ware is a type of pottery produced around Mashiko Town, Tochigi Prefecture, with a history dating back to the end of the Edo period.
The history began when Keizaburo Otsuka, who was training in Kasama ware in Ibaraki, searched for pottery clay suitable for pottery in Mashiko Town and chose it as a place for pottery.
The main products are daily necessities such as pots and clay pots.
As it was close to the metropolitan area and suitable for distribution, it rapidly developed.
Hundreds of potters from both Japan and abroad are said to have gathered there since ancient times because of the spirit of ``not refusing anyone who comes.''
Today, we continue to create products that are accepted by many people by fusing the tradition of Mashiko ware with cutting-edge design.
Characteristics of Mashiko ware
Mashiko ware is characterized by its earthy texture.
The pottery clay produced within the prefecture contains many air bubbles, so it is not suitable for detailed work and ends up being thick.
This gives rise to the characteristic of Mashiko ware, which is the plump and warm to the touch.
One of its charms is that it has a sandy air that gives it a rustic feel.
The clay of Mashiko ware goes perfectly with the glazes that are also made in Mashiko, and the colors created by candy glazes and celadon glazes also create a tasteful impression.
Due to the nature of the clay, Mashiko ware tends to turn black when fired, so efforts have been made to cover it up by applying a white coating using nukajiro glaze.
The decorations are basically simple and practical, drawn with familiar tools such as brush marks and comb marks.
Charm of Mashiko ware
Mashiko ware is made as a tool used in daily life.
For this reason, most of the utensils are suitable for any kind of cooking or dining table.
A plump bowl that encases a colorful salad.
It creates a warm impression on the dining table without interfering with the color of the salad.
It is also great for Western dishes such as bread and hashed beef.
Even with simple dishes, you can create a fluffy and rich dining table.
Of course, it goes perfectly with Japanese food!
I suddenly want to have him appear in many scenes where we eat steaming rice.
The appeal of Mashiko ware is that it can be used in both Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisines, whether it's simple ingredients or colorful menus.
Speaking of Mashiko ware! Three potteries you should know
Tsukamoto
Tsukamoto Kiln is a pottery with a history of over 150 years, having been founded in 1864, and is also called the largest pottery in Mashiko.
Even after Mashiko ware was converted into a folk art, the company was still struggling with its business, and Tsukamoto was contracted to manufacture containers for the ekiben ``Toge no Kamameshi'' sold at Yokogawa Station on the Shinetsu Line.
Gradually, the demand for Touge's kama-meshi grew, and we could no longer meet the demand with our own production alone, so we placed orders with about 20 other potteries.
This led to the management stability of the entire Mashiko ware industry.
Currently, Tsukamoto is manufacturing containers for Toge no Kama-meshi.
Tsukamoto strives to create products with the idea of ``creating products that suit the times.''
``Kamacco'' No. 1 Cooker, which was developed based on the concept of an earthenware pot for one person, is a product that shows this attitude.
The head office is located in Mashiko Town, about 7 minutes by car from Mashiko Station.
In addition to the kiln factory, the vast site surrounded by nature has a gallery, experience workshop, and dining facilities, so you can enjoy ``seeing, shopping, playing, and eating.''
When you go to Mashiko, this is the first pottery you want to visit.
Mashiko ware pottery Tsukamoto
Address: Tochigi 4264 Mashiko, Mashiko-machi, Haga-gun, Prefecture
Business hours: 9:00-17:00
Closed: Every Thursday
Official website :http://tsukamoto.net/
Yoshizawa kiln
Yoshizawa kiln pottery that warmly decorates your dining table with its plump texture.
They create products with a focus on the use of containers.
One of the popular points is that it is very cute, yet durable, and can be used in the microwave and dishwasher, making it easy to use in daily life.
The uniquely shaped utensils are very cute, but when placed on the table with food, they naturally stand out.
It also has such charm.
We do not have a physical store, and can mainly be purchased at the folk craft store "Yamani Otsuka" in Mashiko Town and online shop "on the table."
You can check the arrival information on "on the table"'s official Facebook page and email newsletter, so be sure to check it out.
We recommend checking frequently if there is an item you are interested in, as items often sell out immediately after being announced.
We also have a stall at the Mashiko Pottery Fair, but it is so popular every year that admission is only possible after numbered tickets have been distributed.
Some years it was possible to apply for a numbered ticket in advance, so if you are thinking of going, please check the information on the official website beforehand.
Yoshizawa Kiln
Official online shop:< a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.yoshizawa-gama.com/" target="_blank">http://www.yoshizawa-gama.com/< /p>
Enokida kiln
Dots, lattices, plants...the ``Enokida Kiln'' is known for its eye-catching patterns.
Utensils create a bright and lively dining table, and they go well with colorful salads and calming stews.
The plump texture is typical of Mashiko ware, making it a comfortable vessel to hold in your hand.
The fifth generation, Wakaba Enokida, makes pottery with dot patterns.
At our main store in Mashiko Town, I make pottery with my husband, Satoshi, and my father, Katsuhiko, who is the 4th generation owner.
Wakaba's series that incorporates dot and lattice patterns are also painted using the Enokida kiln's technique of applying wax and flicking the glaze (robiki).
Enokida kiln is also famous for its teapots.
Please try it together with the utsuwa.
In addition to the main store, which is both a workshop and a store, you can also enjoy freshly made soba noodles made by Katsuhiko, the 4th generation owner, at a branch a little further away.
Of course, the containers are from Enokida Kiln.
When you visit, you should definitely try the soba noodles, which are made using the skill of kneading the dough cultivated through making pottery.
Enokida Kiln
Address: Tochigi Prefecture 4240 Mashiko, Mashiko-machi, Haga-gun
Business hours: 10:00-16:00
Closed: Every Thursday
Official website: https://enokidagama.jp/
Popular pottery makers in Mashiko
Mashiko ware has always had an attitude of accepting new things.
Today, many artists are still making their own pottery.
You're sure to find a pottery that makes you think, "Wow!"
Tree
There are also uniquely shaped vessels that take advantage of the plump texture of Mashiko ware.
Kinokonoko Fuku Shokupan Plate looks just like toast.
You can put bread on it, or it would be fun to put egg dishes or salad on top of the bread.
There is also a bowl shaped like a koppepan.
The color shading and pinholes that occur naturally during the process of making the pottery are part of its uniqueness, and are points that you can't help but love.
Mio Higashamine
Mio Higashamine creates many motifs such as swallows and flowers.
They produce beautiful containers that are reminiscent of Scandinavian textiles.
It has a somewhat nostalgic and retro feel to it, and it also gives the impression that you would find it in a fancy coffee shop.
Masayo Toyota
You will be captivated by the delicate patterns that appear to bulge.
Toyoda's work uses a technique called ``Itchin,'' which involves drawing patterns as if decorating with cream.
You can feel the sense of playfulness in the warmth of the careful handwork.
Yoshiko Kasahara
One of the characteristics of the thick Mashiko ware pottery is that it feels secure when you hold it.
The utensils made by Ryoko Kasahara are the kind of utensils that give you such a sense of security.
For example, the soba choko has a thick beveled decoration and a moderate weight.
This is a container that makes you feel strangely relieved when you hold it in your hand.
Not only can it be used as an accompaniment to soba and somen noodles, but it can also be used as a tea or coffee cup in conjunction with the pot also made by Mr. Kasahara.
Kanae Aizawa
A pottery by Kanae Aizawa with illustrations that will soften your heart just by looking at them.
The gentle illustrations that match the plump warmth of Mashiko ware will make you feel relaxed every time you use it.
Atsushi Watanabe
Atsushi Watanabe's pottery has a simple yet playful design and elegant colors.
The miniature bean bowl, which looks like a small pot, is very cute.
It will be an accent to your dining table.
Collaboration with popular characters
Here, we would like to introduce unique Mashiko ware utensils made in collaboration with popular characters that everyone knows.
PEANUTS
Mashiko ware has a spirit that does not resist newness, and while preserving its tradition,
also engages in collaborations.
The pottery is decorated with Mashiko's traditional glaze, depicting scenes from PEANUTS comics, and has a warm finish created by craftsmen's handwork.
Lisa Larson
Lisa Larson is also famous for Mikey, the cat with his impressive striped body and raised eyes, and Lion for his kind eyes.
The creator, Lisa Larsson, is also a designer and one of Sweden's leading ceramic artists.
Lisa, who had a strong interest in Japanese culture, met Shoji Hamada, one of the people who popularized Mashiko ware, and dreamed of ``someday making Mashiko pieces.''
This pottery has made that a reality.
We also have a store at Mashiko's pottery market.
Lisa Larson event venue is Tsukamoto.
If you are interested, please check out the official Lisa Larson page. (Opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.lisalarson.jp/" target="_blank">Lisa Larson official pagePlease check it out.
Mashiko Pottery Market
A large pottery market is held in Mashiko every spring and fall, and many people visit.
It is very popular, with good access from Tokyo and bus tours available.
The event is held twice each year in the spring and fall (Golden Week in the spring and around November 3rd in the fall).
The pottery market, which started in 1966, has been held over 100 times and is a popular pottery fair that attracts 600,000 visitors annually.
There are about 50 stores and about 500 tents, and you can buy products while talking directly with the artists and craftsmen.
There are plenty of transportation options, such as a direct bus from Tokyo to Mashiko Pottery City, and a local bus service in Mashiko Town.
Event dates: Around Golden Week (spring), around November 3rd (autumn)
Holding time: 9:00-17:00
Venue: Various locations in town (centered on Jonai-zaka and Sayad districts)< br>Official website: http://blog.mashiko-kankou.org/ceramics_bazaar/index.shtml
Very crowded on the day of the event.
If there is a particular pottery you are looking for, we recommend going early in the morning and lining up to make sure you are in the best possible condition.
On the day of the day, it is crowded from early morning, but the crowds and traffic tend to calm down in the afternoon and evening.
If you want to enjoy it slowly, you can also go out in the afternoon using public transportation.
In addition, shops run by popular artists may be given out numbered tickets before the pottery market is held.
If there is an artist you are looking for, you can rest assured by checking the shop's official website and SNS.
The main venue of the pottery market is the so-called "Yakimono Hondori" street that extends from the station.
Everywhere in town is a pottery market, so you might get a little tired just walking.
It would be nice to be able to enjoy the pottery market without overdoing it by taking a tour bus or taking a break at a nearby food shop.
If you are coming from Tokyo, it would be a good idea to take a direct bus from places like Akihabara, or combine a train and bus and take a bus from Utsunomiya Station.
Of course, you can go there by car, but traffic jams are expected, so it's a good idea to check the route and parking lot beforehand before heading out on the day.
This article introduces Mashiko Pottery City in detail, so please read it if you are interested.
A must-see for those who are confused! 17 Recommended Lunch Places to Eat at Mashiko Pottery Market
33 popular artists from
Mashiko tourist information
After researching Mashiko ware, don't you want to actually go to Mashiko?
The area is also attractive because it has a relatively large number of galleries and shops, making it easy to sightsee.
Please use this as a reference when you go out.
You can read the article about the Uchiru editorial department's visit to Mashiko here.
Mashiko, a pottery town where you can enjoy visiting power spots and cafes
Major tourist spots
Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Reference Museum
Shoji Hamada, a potter, opened this museum in a part of his residence to display and show the ceramics, lacquerware, woodwork, metalwork, furniture, dyed and woven fabrics, and other crafts he had collected over a long period of time. It's a facility.
There are not only Japanese ones but also European ones, and if you are a pottery lover, you will be very excited to see them and wonder if they used the pattern of this fabric as a reference when making the pottery.
There is also a climbing kiln, which is really worth seeing.
Address : 3388 Mashiko, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi Prefecture 321-4217
Business hours: 9:30-17:00 (Last entry is 16:30)
Closed on Mondays (Open if Monday is a public holiday) )
Year-end and New Year holidays December 28th to January 4th (slight changes depending on the year) Admission fee: Adults 800 yen (700 yen), Children (junior high/high school students) 400 yen (300 yen)
HP: https://mashiko -sankokan.net/
Mashiko ware kiln joint sales center
The joint sales center is marked by Japan's largest raccoon dog in front.
It is also the venue for the pottery market.
There are many types of pottery, from artists' pottery to everyday tableware.
We recommend that you take a quick look at the products here, check the price range, find the style you want, and then visit the pottery and shops.
Events are also held regularly.
Address: 706-2 Mashiko, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi Prefecture 321-4217
Business hours: 10:00-15:00 (weekdays), 10:00-16:00 (holidays)
Closed on Wednesdays
HP: http ://www.mashikoyakikyouhan.jp/index.php
Mashiko Roadside Station
You can buy vegetables grown in Mashiko, processed products made from them, and handicrafts for everyday life, and you can also prepare a meal.
Roadside stations are facilities that make you think that they are fun.
The eye-catching chevron-shaped building won the grand prize, the highest award, at the Japan Architecture Awards (sponsored by the Japan Institute of Architects).
When you step inside, you will feel the pleasant sunlight coming in through the large glass and feel the warmth of the wood.
The location is between Moka City and Mashiko, so we recommend stopping by by car.
Address: 2271 Nagatsumi, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi
Business hours: 9:00-18:00
Closed: 2nd Tuesday of every month
HP: http://m-mashiko.com/
Stylish shops and galleries
Star Net
A shop and cafe selling pottery, organic food, clothes, and more as a way to live in harmony with nature.
The interior of the store is based on white walls and wooden interiors, creating a very calm atmosphere where you can enjoy shopping in a leisurely manner.
At the cafe, you can eat healthy meals made with local ingredients, and the tableware is made of Mashiko ware and Kasama ware.
Address: 3278-1 Mashiko, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi Prefecture 321-4217
Business hours: 11 :00～18:00
Closed: Every Thursday (excluding holidays)
HP: https://www. starnet-bkds.com/
G＋OO
A select shop for ceramics and miscellaneous goods located on Jonai-zaka, which is lined with Mashiko ware shops and galleries.
In the shop, which is a renovated home garage, we sell pottery made by around 50 artists, mainly from Mashiko.
In addition to containers, we also have cute postcards, accessories, kitchen utensils, and more, so you can find your favorite item.
Address: 115 Jonaisaka, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi
Business hours: 10:00-17: 00
Regular holiday: Wednesday (open on holidays) /a>
Pejite
The shop has been renovated from the old Yonizo, but it is overwhelmed by its presence!
The shop has apparel supplies such as old furniture, writer's vessels working in Mashiko, clothes, shoes, wallets, etc., so you can see the products carefully in a calm shop.
Nearby is Nihei Furniture Store, which specializes in old furniture, so please visit.
Address: 973-6 Mashiko-cho, Tochigi, Tochigi Prefecture -18: 00
Regular holiday: Thursday
HP: http://pejite-mashiko.shop-pro.jp /
Lunch Cafe
Chaya Rain Maki
Italian restaurant is a landmark of a mountain hut -style building at the entrance of Mt.
You can enjoy Napoli pizza baked in a stone kiln in a store surrounded by nature.
Weekday lunch is recommended because salad, pickles, appetizers, 1,200 ~ (excluding tax) with drinks.
Address: 1234 Kamioha, Haga-cho, Tochigi-gun, Tochigi-gun Hours
Regular holiday: Monday/Tuesday
HP: https://pizza-restaurant-amaki.busines. Site/
Hijinowa Cafeand Space
Quoted from Hijinowa Cafe & Amp; Space Official Instagram
Hijinois Cafe & Space is a community operated by volunteers.
There is an irregular cafe store, so you can enjoy delicious lunch and desserts.
Solo exhibitions, workshops, live performances, etc. may also be held, so please check out the event information.
Address : 1665 Mashiko, Mashiko-cho, Haga-gun, Tochigi
Business hours: & nbsp; 11: 00-17: 00
Regular holidays: irregular holidays /"> https://hijinowa.net/
Café FUNE
Café Fune has a nice appearance like a private house to a cafe.
Lunch course with content like a French cuisine mini course can be enjoyed by 1650 yen.
The container used for serving is also wonderful, and it is a lunch that you can enjoy with your eyes.
Address: 5196 Mashiko-cho, Haga-cho, Tochigi, Tochigi Prefecture 0000pm
Closed on Wednesday/Thursday
HP: http://www.cafefune.jp/menu/index. html
When you want to experience Mashiko ware
Mashiko Ceramics Club
You can experience the masterpiece using electric roller with the guidance of the staff.
Clay is all -you -can -use, and you can challenge your favorite things such as rice bowls, teacups, and vases many times!
Because you can bake your favorite ones from the ones you made, this! You can use the masterpiece at home.
If it is difficult to make a vessel from scratch, please use a painting classroom because there are also painting classrooms.
住所：321-4217 栃木県芳賀郡益子町益子3288-6
電話番号：0285- 72-3866
Business hours: 9: 00-17: 00 //mashiko-tougei-club.jp/
Tsumoto
You can also experience ceramics at pottery, represented by Mashiko ware!
Rokuro, hand twist, painting can be selected from three types, so children who are still difficult to use Rokuro are safe.
Because the number of rokuro has a large number, you can enjoy participation in the group.
Address: & nbsp; -5151
Opening hours: Weekdays 11: 00-15: 00 Saturdays, Sundays, Sundays, Sundays, and holidays 10: 00-15: 00 /tsukamoto.net/potter/> https://tsukamoto.net/potter/
Those who are worried about the brands introduced
This time, we introduced the charm of Mashiko ware.
Mashiko ware is made of various styles of containers, from cute things to cool atmosphere.
Did you find your favorite or worrisome works?
You can see the Mashiko ware's container introduced this time. ( * Please note that there are some containers that are not handled.)
Please find your favorite.