Hello, this is UTSUWABI staff.
What do you think of when you hear the word “Shigaraki ware”?
Some
may think of raccoon dog figurines, and others may think of the NHK TV series “Scarlett”.
Exhibit:Shigaraki Town Tourist Association
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.
Many people may not know in detail why the tanuki figurines were made in the
first place or why the title of the drama was “Scarlett.
In this issue, we will introduce Shigaraki
ware.
If you would like to know what kind of Shigaraki ware is available, please click here! If you are
interested in Shigaraki ware, please click here.
We will also tell you about our recommended lineup of vessels and stores you might want to drop by when you visit Shigaraki.
What kind of pottery is Shigaraki ware?
Region and History
Shigaraki is located on the south side of “Lake Biwa,” the largest lake in Japan.
This location is one reason why Shigaraki ware has developed so much.
Lake Biwa was located exactly where
Shigaraki is located 4 million years ago, but over the years it moved to its current location.
Therefore,
Shigaraki, where Lake Biwa used to be, has accumulated earth, sand, and the debris of animals and plants, which has
created clay soil suitable for pottery.
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, tea ceramics flourished, and its wabi and sabi textures were
loved by many tea masters.
In the Meiji period (1868-1912), Shigaraki-ware braziers with excellent fire
resistance became popular, accounting for as much as 90% of the domestic market share.
feature
Shigaraki ware is characterized by its rustic texture and the production of large-sized ceramics, which are the result
of nature's bounty.
The secret lies in the Shigaraki clay.
By mixing high-quality clay from Lake
Biwa with several types of clay and other materials, a strong clay is produced.
This is the reason why
large ceramics such as raccoon dogs and brazier can be made.
Why the image of Shigaraki ware = raccoon dog?
Now, regarding the image of Shigaraki ware = raccoon dogs, it was Emperor Showa who established this image.
When he visited Shigaraki in 1951, he was greeted by many raccoon dogs carrying the Japanese flag.
Newspapers
and other media reported the raccoon dogs, and the image of raccoon dogs became widespread.
Meaning of the morning drama “Scarlett”.
Scarlet” is an NHK morning drama series.
Set in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, it is the story of a female potter
who paves her own way in the world of ceramic art.
Have you ever wondered what the title
Scarlett...means?
It comes from the unique color characteristics of Shigaraki ware.
When fired
in a wood-fired kiln without glaze, the chemical reaction produces pottery with a pink or unique red (scarlet) color.
The title of the morning drama “Scarlet” comes from this scarlet color.
This hue is also the result of the
abundance of ingredients suitable for ceramic clay.
Until recently, Shigaraki ware was mainly fired without
glaze or ash glaze based on clay or straw ashes, but recently glazes of various shades have been used.
Therefore,
you can enjoy not only Shigaraki ware with a rustic image, but also unique pieces.
Recommended vessels by style
Shigaraki ware has a simple design that blends seamlessly into everyday life.
Here are some recommended
tableware that you will want to use every day at your dining table.
Easy to use as a standard, Shigaraki ware of Kohiki
The softly textured white color of this “Kohiki” vessel is at home in your daily life.
The scarlet color that
peeks out in places gives a sense of the warmth of Shigaraki-ware clay.
It is easy to match with any dishes
and utensils, so it can be used as a staple at your dining table.
Furutani Seitosho Ruffle Plate White S
The rim is accented with a frilled pattern that resembles the folds of a garment.
The gentle and rustic
reddish clay and the flow and pooling of the glaze create a deep atmosphere.
Round Plate Kohiki 24cm/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
The spots created by iron powder that appear here and there are charming.
The rim of the bowl stands up smoothly,
giving it a clean look.
It is about 8” in size and is useful for serving a main dish or a whole cake.
Japanese Teapot Cracked Powder | Kyusu Shigaraki Ware
The round, lovely form resembles a puffer fish.
The individual crack patterns on each piece give it a unique
look.
With a capacity for two to three people, it is sure to be a dependable companion for both everyday
use and for guests.
Stew Bowl Kohiki | Shigaraki Ware
The round shape and small ears are the charm points.
It is very useful when used with soups, such as thick
stew or minestrone with many ingredients.
Small Round Bowl Kiseto | Kobachi Shigaraki Ware
You can enjoy the rich expression of natural materials in these vessels.
They have a nostalgic atmosphere,
and will bring a peaceful atmosphere to your dining table.
Round Plate White | Shigaraki Ware
The slight yellowish hue creates a soft and gentle atmosphere.
The smooth surface of the bowl has a comfortable
texture that makes you want to wrap your hands around it.
The appearance of the bowl is not too assertive,
and it complements foodstuffs, making it a gentle addition to your daily dining table.
Dish, iron powder-coated, pottery, Shigaraki ware
The mottled pattern of iron powder scattered throughout the vase is charming.
This speckled pattern is the result
of iron contained in the clay, which is baked in the kiln to form black spots on the surface.
The size of
this dish is useful for serving side dishes and desserts, as well as as as a serving dish.
It is a little deep,
so you can enjoy soupy dishes as well.
Soup Cup White | Shigaraki Ware
It is a large size to enjoy stew, pork miso soup, and other ingredients in a bowl.
It is deep enough to be
used as a small bowl of rice, such as a bibimbap bowl with meat and namul on top of rice.
Noodle Bowl Tobikanna | Ramen Bowl Shigaraki Ware
The geometric patterns created by traditional techniques are distinctive.
The warm brown color with
rhythmic dotted pattern creates a light atmosphere.
It is the perfect size for serving roast chicken and
potatoes or other dishes that you want to share with others.
Shigaraki ware with modern and fashionable patterns
These vessels have the warmth of Shigaraki-yaki clay, yet are modern in color and design.
They are a
perfect match not only for Japanese cuisine, but also for Western cuisine, and fit gently into modern life.
Rim Plate Line 24cm/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
The contrast between the simple white base and black border gives this platter a modern impression.
It can
be used as a main dish for two or three people by serving fried chicken or meat and potatoes, or as a main dish for
one person by serving ginger yaki with shredded cabbage.
It is also a great way to enhance Japanese food
that tends to look plain.
Japanese Cup Dot Black | Yunomi Shigaraki Ware
The simple shape of the container, which can be used for any purpose, is excellent for expanding the range of your
dining table.
It can be used not only for beverages, but also for vegetable sticks because of its wide
aperture.
tomaru Plate Star 24cm/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
Dynamically carved geometric patterns on a kohiki vessel.
The warmth of the clay itself and the oriental
atmosphere can be felt.
Shigaraki ware with a simple design
These vessels show a particular attention to the coloring and materiality of the glaze.
The simple design
enhances the beauty of the glaze.
Round Plate Turquoise 25㎝/9.8in | Shigaraki Ware
The gradation of blue is refreshing and looks like the ocean.
The eye-catching turquoise blue color will make
even the simplest dish gorgeous.
It is perfect for serving about four people, or for a balanced arrangement of cheeses and snacks, or for entertaining.
Furutani Seitosho Rust Glaze Round Bowl Large | Serving Bowl
The wide, straw hat-like rim of this bowl makes it a useful item that can be served with any dish.
It goes
well with simple dishes such as minestrone and pot-au-feu that make the most of the flavor of the ingredients.
Furutani Seitosho Pitcher Ruri Large
It is also nice to add ice and sliced lemon or your favorite herbs to the water.
Because of its height, it
can be used as a vase for enjoying cherry blossoms, cotton flowers, and other branching plants.
Flower-shaped Small Plate Pink | Shigaraki Ware
Like strawberry milk or macaroons, these pastel-colored small plates are perfect for serving canned goods or
muffins.
The fluttering rim of this dish makes it look even prettier when you place a canulé or a muffin on
it.
Mugs are especially popular among Shigaraki ware.
There is also a special article featuring a collection of
items that will make your home café time and meals more enjoyable, so if you are interested, please read on.
7 Shigaraki Ware Mugs and Soup Cups Perfect for Everyday Use
Popular Shigaraki ceramic artist
Shigaraki ware, in a word, varies from simple textures to eye-catching colors.
Here, we would like to
introduce some of the artists who create Shigaraki ware.
Koichi Furutani (Furutani Pottery)
Mr. Furutani is the successor to Furutani Pottery.
The simple and gentle expressions of his pottery, made of his
own clay, are very appealing.
The relaxing patterns and hues of the konpiki clay and its enveloping form
will give you a sense of relaxation in your busy day-to-day life.
The bowl is fired twice at a high
temperature, called “honyaki,” so that it can be used in a microwave oven.
You can rest assured that it has a
durable quality that can be used for a long time.
Sahira Kiln
Using a firing method called “cooling reduction,” Sahei Kiln produces vessels with a slightly metallic quality and
mellow colors.
The pottery is characterized by its solid construction with a tight turning wheel.
As
he says, “I try to make vessels as tools that are easy to use and will last forever.
Sankirai Ceramics Studio
Sankirai Tobo is a pottery studio surrounded by the nature of Shigaraki.
The contrast of blue and white
colors is refreshing and brightens up your mood.
The textile-like design blends in with modern life.
Toshio Tomaru
These vessels are finished in a modern style using a technique called “Kanna-shaving.
The somewhat oriental
atmosphere makes them easy to use regardless of the genre of cuisine, which is a delight.
The eye-catching
design will make your dining table lively, and the design is also suitable for use in a wide variety of dishes.
Togetsu Kiln (Masahiro Kubo)
Togetsugama's works are semi-porcelain vessels made from a mixture of Shigaraki clay and Amakusa clay.
The
patterns and shapes are sure to delight anyone who holds them in their hands.
It is perfect for women who want to
make their dining table a little prettier.
It can be used in the microwave and dishwasher.
Masaki Domoto
Masaki Domoto studied under Nobuo Furutani at Furutani Pottery and established Domoto Pottery Studio in Shigaraki in
2007.
Domoto's vessels are made using traditional glazes and valuing the presence of the unique Shigaraki
clay.
Every time I use them, they reveal different expressions.
He aims to create such vessels, which
will be loved by everyone for a long time to come.
Otani Pottery (Tetsuya and Momoko Otani)
Tetsuya and Momoko Otani make pottery at Otani Pottery.Tetsuya and Momoko Otani make pottery at Otani Pottery.
Tetsuya's white porcelain vessels have a simple yet sophisticated form that is beautiful and enchanting.
Flowers and plants are depicted on Momoko's vessels, and their lovely appearance is sure to cheer you up.
Her works, created from small ideas she comes across in her daily life, will gently accompany you in your daily life.
Jun Fujiwara
Mr. Jun Fujiwara is a potter in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture.
He is the fourth generation of his
great-grandfather's generation to work at the pottery, making objects and vessels.
Fujiwara's unique blue
and gray colored vessels, also known as Fujiwara blue, have many fans, and are so popular that numbered tickets are
drawn by lottery at his solo exhibitions.
Yasumi Kobo (Maki Yasumi, Hayato Yasumi)
Yasumi Kobo's pottery is simple and rustic, yet has a seasonal feel to it.
The sky and cloud-like designs
evoke an exciting early summer picnic, perfect for the coming season.
The hand-drawn vessels of vegetables and
fruits can be used either as a single item on the table or as a matching set.
The artist uses a variety of
techniques, such as matching the smooth, matte kohiki atmosphere with glossy glaze colors and bold use of gosu.
Top 5 best-selling Shigaraki ware
At UTSUWABI, we carry many Shigaraki ware vessels.
Here are the top five best-selling vessels among them.
No.1 Round Plate Kohiki 24cm/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
No.2 Round Plate Matte Black 24㎝/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
No.3 Japanese Teapot Cracked Powder | Kyusu Shigaraki Ware
No.4 Deep Donburi Bowl Gold | Shigaraki Ware
No.5 Deep Plate Black 24㎝/9.4in | Shigaraki Ware
Shigaraki Tourist Information
I want to go to Shigaraki and buy some nice vessels.
I would like to eat a delicious meal and experience
Shigaraki pottery making!
For those who want to visit Shigaraki, here are some of the stores and
sightseeing spots that you should stop by when you visit Shigaraki.
Click here to read an article about an
actual visit to Shigaraki by UTSUWABI staff.
・Pottery Walk in Shigaraki: Exploring the Town of Tanuki
・Journey Around Utensils Vol. 14: Healing with Shigaraki Ware and Cafes
Galleries and stores where Shigaraki ware can be purchased
When you visit Shigaraki, we recommend that you first visit galleries and stores run by potters and artists.
You
are sure to find your favorites as you stroll around.
Maruichi Honten
Located about 10 meters from Shigaraki Station, the store has about 2,500 types of Shigaraki ware in stock!
It is recommended for those who would like to see various types of Shigaraki ware first.
There is also a showroom with over 300 types of hand wash basins and ceramic bathtubs, so you can see the large ceramics that are typical of Shigaraki ware.
Address: 228 Kawahigashi, Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone number: 0748-82-0234
Business
hours: 9:00-18:00
Holidays: Year-end and New Year holidays
HP：https://www.yakimono.co.jp/
shop & gallery Toumu
It is a spacious gallery with works by 50 to 60 artists on display at any given time.
The gallery is a
place for young artists to showcase their work, with solo exhibitions held approximately every month.
You
can enjoy discovering new discoveries and encountering wonderful vessels every time you visit.
Address: 65 Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga
Tel: 0748-82-2686
Business hours: 10:00 - 17:00
Holiday:
Wednesdays
HP：http://toumu.sakura.ne.jp/index.html
Bungoro Warehouse
Located in a corner of the Bungoro Kiln is the Bungoro Warehouse, a gallery in a renovated 50-year-old warehouse.
Originally
used as a workshop, visitors can enjoy the remnants of its past.
Akira Okuda's signature work, the
“Reversible Series,” is a wonderful cross between black and white color designs.
These easy-to-use vessels,
which are suitable for both Japanese and Western cuisine, are sure to make table coordination a pleasure.
Address: 1087 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone number: 0748-82-3153
Business hours:
10:00-18:00
Holiday: Open irregularly
HP：http://www.bungoro.com/
job of a vessel
A pottery and accessory atelier and gallery open only on Sundays, run by artists Naoko Murakami and Takahito
Shirai.
The works are based on motifs of nature in spring, summer, fall, and winter, and are made with a
white base and unified with calm colors such as rusty iron and rusty black.
The charm of the works is that
they have an atmosphere that combines the texture of clay with the taste of antiques.
The design and size
of the pots will fit comfortably in a woman's hand.
Address: 1978-1 Tento, Shigaraki Town
Phone number: 090-4305-6662
Business hours: 11:00-17:00
Business
day: Sunday
HP：https://utsuwa-shigoto.jp/
Ogama
The large climbing kiln at Ogama is eye-catching and is operated by Meizangama.
It exhibits and sells
flower vases, tableware, and accessories, and holds special exhibitions at different times of the year.
There
is also a café where visitors can enjoy a meal with Shigaraki-ware vessels while gazing at the climbing kiln, making
it a perfect place to take a break from strolling.
Address: 947 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone number: 0748-82-8066
Business hours:
10:00-16:30 (L.O. 16:00)
Closed: Wednesday and Thursday
HP：https://www.meizan.info/ogama/
Shigaraki Pottery Studio
If you go all the way to Shigaraki, you may want to try your hand at making pottery.
There are places where
you can experience Shigaraki pottery making.
Reservations are often required in advance, so please check
the website for more information.
Okuda Chuzaemon Kiln Shigaraki Ceramic Village
In addition to pottery, visitors can try their hand at making Shigaraki-style pottery such as raccoon dog figurines
and lamps.
Children who are not yet able to learn how to make pottery can also enjoy the experience of
painting on the vessels and raccoon dog piggy banks made by the craftsmen.
Address: 1131 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture (Main Store)
Phone number: 0748-82-0522
Hours:
9:00-17:30
Closed: Open all year round
HP：http://tougeimura.jp/
Shigaraki Kenzo Ceramic Art Club
From first-time ceramic artists to those who are serious about their craft, there is a plan for everyone to enjoy
making pottery.
You can choose from three courses: the electric rocro course, the hand twisting course, and
the tatara course.
Address: 755-1 Nagano, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone number: 0748-82-2216
Hours:
10:00-17:00
Closed: No regular holidays
HP：https://www.tougei-kenzo.com/
Rokuro Workshop: Youki-Tosha
There are courses in both handmade pottery making and full-scale pottery making using an electric potter's wheel, and
there is also a course in creative pottery making where you can experience both.
We recommend this course
for those who want to make plates and complex shaped pieces, but also want to try using the potter's wheel! This
course is recommended for those who want to make plates and complex shapes, but also want to use the potter's wheel.
Address: 2344 Tento, Shigaraki-cho, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture
Phone number: 0748-83-0570
Business hours:
10:00-17:30 (last admission at 16:00)
Closed: Open every day
HP：https://e-yakimono.jp/
Shigaraki Cafe
If you are hungry after visiting vessels, you may want to take a break.
Here are some perfect places to take a break when you are hungry.
TORASARU
A café with a gallery, with a lovely chic interior.
Depending on the time of year, there are also private
exhibitions of artists.
The coffee and cheesecake are perfect for a 3:00 p.m. snack.
Spending time
with delicious coffee and lovely vessels is a blissful experience.
Address: 1970-4, Tento, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga
Telephone number: 0748-83-1186
Business hours:
11:00-19:00 (L.O.18:00)
Closed: Wednesday
HP：https://www.torasaru.com/
temahimautuwa
This café is run by the wife of ceramic artist Nozomi Shinohara.
The dishes served in earthenware-like dishes
with warmth are exquisite!
You can also enjoy baked goods and parfaits during café hours.
Reservations
are required, so please check with us in advance via Instagram.
Address: 157 Kise, Shigaraki-cho, Koka-shi, Shiga 529-1802
Business hours and holidays: Check from Instagram *Reservations required
HP：https://www.torasaru.com/
Table Coordination with Shigaraki Ware
Once you have found a beautiful tableware, you want to start serving your dishes.
What kind of table
coordination do you enjoy?
A large bowl of potato salad served in an iron-powder-coated bowl.
The rustic coloring will come in handy
as a standard vessel, regardless of the dish you choose.
Table coordination using Furutani's tableware.
Although Japanese tableware is Japanese, it fits perfectly
with a Western atmosphere.
Japanese coordination in shades of brown.
This plate is just right for a rice ball and two eggs.
Events
Pottery fairs are held all over Japan.
Of course, Shigaraki also has its own pottery market!
Usually
held in spring and fall, here are the two pottery fairs.
Shigaraki Pottery Festival
The Shigaraki Pottery Festival, held every fall, is a fun, festival-like pottery market with stalls selling local delicacies.
Exhibitions and sales are held simultaneously at several locations in the town.
The big sale is the most
popular event, and some items are sold at a discount of 20-50% off the regular price at stores.
During the
period of the event, exhibitions and sales are also held at the Shiga Prefectural Ceramic Cultural Park and other
places, so visitors can enjoy shopping while strolling through the entire town of Shigaraki.
At the
Shigaraki Ceramic Art Market in the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, you will find artists' stalls.
Shigaraki Artists' Market
The Shigaraki Writers' Market is an annual GW event that focuses on the sale of artists' works, and the scale of the event seems to grow larger every year.
The ways to encounter and purchase vessels made by artists are limited, such as through private exhibitions or online
shopping.
The most attractive point of the Artists' Market is that you can encounter the works of many such
artists.
The price range of pottery on display is usually between 1,200 yen and 5,000 yen.
Of
course, there are some that are higher or lower than that!
Consulting with your wallet and steadily
collecting vessels is part of the fun.
The Shigaraki Writers' Market sells not only pottery but also
handmade goods, so you may be able to find what you are looking for there as well!
Each of the vessels is
packed with a different view of the world, so it will be a good opportunity to discover your own tastes and new
discoveries.
To learn more about the Shigaraki Writers' Market, please read this summary article.
Shigaraki Potter Market : A Complete Guide to Key Information and Featured Artists
summary
We have taken a close-up look at Shigaraki ware and introduced its features and places to stop by when you visit
Shigaraki, along with recommended vessels.
If you would like to see more Shigaraki ware vessels, please
click here! If you want to see more Shigaraki ware, please take a look at this page as well.
In addition to the Japanese tableware introduced here, UTSUWABI also sells a variety of other tableware, so if you like, please visit UTSUWABI.
May you find your favorite vessels and enjoy your everyday tablescape even more!