Shigaraki is one of the oldest ceramic-producing areas in Japan, located in Shiga Prefecture–my hometown! At the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park, you can learn all about the ancient craft that is believed to have originated in the late Kamakura Period (1185 – 1333).
The local sandy clay collected near Lake Biwa (Japan’s largest lake) has a warm orange color and produces very durable pottery with beautiful earthy tones and textures. Due to its ability to withstand high temperatures, artisans are able to create bold forms (traditionally in wood-fired kilns), which further produce its signature look.
With the rise of mass-producing technology in the early 19th century, many traditional techniques began to rapidly decline. However, Shigaraki artisans managed to resourcefully shift to making a greater variety of utilitarian products like vases, tableware and even decorative tiles. This helped diversify the market and ensure the continuation of the craft.
If you visit Shigaraki, you will find pottery shops on practically every block. I hope you get to spend ample time observing all of the ceramics and find one (or two or three…) that speaks to you.
I also recommend visiting the Miho Museum, which houses an array of traditional Japanese and ancient art from places like Egypt, Greece, Rome and China. The approach to the gorgeous structure nestled among the Shigaraki mountains was also designed by architect I.M. Pei, who is perhaps most known for designing the glass pyramid of the Louvre in Paris.
The Shigaraki Ceramic Park: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/13/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/u82eKRhAyUqaMBjW8
Miho Museum: https://www.miho.jp/en/
Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/wVQmL1FhfpBQke5w9