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Make Karatsu Ceramics in Saga

©Koichiro Fujimoto　　

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Make Karatsu Ceramics in Saga

Visit the Kentaro kiln to create your own Karatsu ware, from painting the ceramics all the way to preparing the kiln and firing them.

Saga Prefecture

Karatsu ware, a type of pottery made mainly in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture, is said to date back to the 1580s and has been designated as a traditional craft of Japan. At the Kentaro kiln, which is located on a hill overlooking the Niji-no-Matsubara pine grove and Karatsu Bay, you can learn how to make vessels from natural raw materials.

The Kentaro kiln has researched clay and glazes based on the traditional techniques of ancient Karatsu ware, and it has developed a unique clay that takes only half a day for firing instead of the usual two days. Using this clay, you can paint the molded vessels as well as chop firewood, build the kiln, fire them yourself, and take home your creations, all on the same day. The experience takes about 5.5 hours from painting to firing.

Karatsu ware has been loved by tea ceremony practitioners since ancient times. During the process of making Karatsu ware, you can take several breaks and enjoy tea made by tea specialist company EN TEA that matches each part of the creation process. Sip a roasted brew before the firing to improve concentration, and cool down with iced tea while facing the heat and smoke during the firing process. The four pairing experiences will deepen your interest in pottery and tea.