10 Best Places to Buy Ceramics in Kyoto

by Laura Miyasaka | TRAVEL

Kyoyaki Crane Sake Set, available at Japan Objects Store

Nestled between the six ancient kilns of Japan, Kyoto is renowned for its diverse range of elegant, sophisticated and beautifully crafted ceramics, known as Kyoto-ware or kyo-yaki. Kyo-yaki includes a diverse range of pottery from wabi-sabi earthenware to intricately painted decor that reflect traditional pottery methods and Japan’s culture, history and heritage. In this article, we will be covering everything from what kyo-yaki is, to what makes it so sought after, and where you can find one of these prized possessions…

1. What is Kyo-yaki?

Kyoyaki Yunomi Teacups, available at Japan Objects Store

So first, what is kyo-yaki? Kyo-yaki is the umbrella term given to all ceramics made in Kyoto city. Each kiln has an extensive history with their own traditions that now, each kiln’s ceramics has their own distinctive style, design and texture. So when it comes to kyo-yaki you can expect a lot of variety.

As kyo-yaki is categorized by where it was crafted rather than by how or by the style, it has given rise to many sub-categories of kyo-yaki for each part of Kyoto city. One of the more well-known sub-categories is kiyomizu-yaki. Kiyomizu-yaki refers to ceramics made along the road leading towards Kiyomizu-dera Temple and it is also presumed that along this route, the kyo-yaki craft originated.

To find out more, check out What is Kyo-Yaki!

Kyo-yaki and kiyomizu-yaki still use traditional methods and pay homage to Japan’s history which is why they were jointly designated traditional crafts by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. To this day, kyo-yaki are still hand-crafted with traditional techniques and produced in small lots, and so, stores that specialize in kyo-yaki create limited edition, one-of-a-kind pieces.

2. How Kyo-yaki Compares to Other Japanese Ceramics

Compared to the pottery produced in other parts of Japan, kyo-yaki is not limited by a particular style or method, as it is categorized by where it was produced. This has given rise to a diverse range of ceramics with a rich, colorful palette.

Each kiln is rooted in its own traditions and a variety of techniques are deployed such as underglaze painting, overglaze painting, intricate carving and embossing. The use of all these techniques allows for a versatile mix of unique ceramics to be crafted, all of which are kyo-yaki. This is what sets kyo-yaki apart from other Japanese ceramics – the amount of variety that can be found within this one category. But like most pottery in Japan, kyo-yaki still draws on inspiration from the natural world, resulting in bold shades of reds and oranges for the fall foliage, and in contrast, pale blossoms that are found in the mountains.

Rakuware Bowl, available at Japan Objects Store

Another key observation is the large amount of ceramics dedicated to tea ceremonies. During the 1600s, Kyoto was where tea ceremonies began to gain traction in Japan and naturally, the kilns started to produce impressive tea ceremony bowels and elegant cups, that would then heighten the tranquility of the Japanese tea ceremony. Nowadays, kyo-yaki are must-haves for any tea enthusiast.

3. The Different Types of Kyo-yaki and how they are made

Rakuware Bowl Set, available at Japan Objects Store

There are three main types of kyo-yaki: Hand-painted, which incorporates seasonal motifs such as the cherry blossoms in spring; Crystal glaze, a more recent technique, where a glaze is applied before firing and then, in the high temperatures of the kiln, forms crystals that give a beautiful surface texture. Finally, there is Raku-ware or raku-yaki, which has a more rustic feel and incorporates the Japanese idea of wabi-sabi – to be beautifully imperfect. Unlike the other styles, raku-yaki is shaped by hand rather than on the potter's wheel. This gives raku-yaki an ergonomic design for tea ceremonies. You can find out more at Rakuware: Everything You Need to Know.

4. Where Can You Buy Kyoto Ceramics

Below we have compiled a list of our recommended kilns and shops where you can purchase your own kyo-yaki and kiyomizu-yaki in Kyoto city.

1. Yasaka Gallery and Studios (Kyoyaki Kiyomizuyaki Pottery Touan)

Touan is one of the biggest pottery brands in Kyoto and currently has a total of 20 professionals making ceramics from scratch, by hand. They prize themselves in their kiyomizu-yaki, which has some of the most vivid colors in pottery in Japan as they utilize a technique called base-coloring. This particular branch of Touan, the Yasaka Gallery and Studios, has a shop and outlet section on the first floor where you can find excellent deals. On the second floor is a showroom that demonstrates how to effortlessly incorporate kyo-yaki into your home.

Address: 385-7 Yasakakamicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto-fu 605-0827, Japan (See on Google Maps)

Website: touan.co.jp

Hours: 11am to 5pm

Transport: 11 minute walk from Tofukuji station.

2. Shoindo

Just a stone’s throw away from Kiyomizudera Temple, Shoindo is a kiln that has been specializing in kyo-yaki, and more specifically kiyomizu-yaki, since the late Edo period (1855). They have a large selection of original, hand-made pieces that cannot be found elsewhere. The majority of their pieces are limited edition.

Address: 3 Chome-319 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan (See on Google Maps)

Website: shoindo.com

Hours: 9am to 5pm

Transport: 21 minute walk from Kiyomizu-gojo station.

3. Utsuwa Haku

A short distance from Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, Utsuwa Haku sells a collection of modern design Japanese tableware. This particular design creates “blank spaces” and makes the plate a canvas for the bright colors of food. You can also request custom made utensils at this store.

Address: 469 Kamitonodancho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0815, Japan (See on Google Maps)

Website: utsuwahaku.base.ec

Hours: 12pm - 5pm (Only open on Saturday and Sunday, closed on weekdays)

Transport: 12 minute walk from Imadegawa station.

4. Tohgoro

Along the Chawan-zaka street which leads to Kiyomizudera Temple, in the birthplace of kiyomizu-yaki, the Tohgoro kiln offers a wide range of high-end kiyomizu-yaki ceramics, from tea ceremony bowls to sake jugs and cups. You can request custom made pieces here also.

Address: 東五六, 6 Chome−539-30, Gojobashihigashi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0846, Japan (See on Google Maps)

Website: tohgoro.co.jp

Hours: 9am to 6pm

Transport: 18 minute walk from Kiyomizu-gojo station.

5. Asahido Honten

Asahido Honten, located near the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera temple, follows an age-old kilning process and only produces ceramics in small volumes to assure top-quality results. The store also has a large selection of tableware from around Japan, including cherry bark work from Akita. The staff are well versed in English and can send your purchases to your address overseas.

Address: 1-280 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see on Google Maps)

Website: asahido.co.jp

Hours: 9am to 6pm, everyday.

Transport: 10 minute walk from Gojozaka bus station.

6. Asahiyaki

Asahiyaki is for visitors who are looking to get their hands dirty and gain some experience at the wheel. With a variety of lessons taught in English, who says that you can’t be a master potter? High-quality Uji clay and over twenty varieties of glaze are provided. Once finished, it will be fired and processed which takes between five to six weeks, and finally it will be shipped directly to your home. They also hold special classes on occasion so, be sure to check their website before your visit.

If you’ve already left Kyoto and are on your way to the capital, don’t worry, we’ve got you. Check out these recommendations of Where to Buy Ceramics in Tokyo.

Address: 67 Ujiyamada, Uji-shi, Kyoto (see on Google Maps)

Website: asahiyaki.com

Hours: 10am to 5pm, closed Monday.

Transport: 16 minute walk from Uji station.

7. Unrakugama

Kyo-yaki can be found in abundance at Unrakugama, located near the Yamashina area and adjacent to the workshop where the ceramics are expertly crafted. 30 to 40 minute guided tours are available for customers and those with a keen interest in their ceramic practice. All artisan pieces made in the workshop are available for purchase in the showroom and store, with a wide range in terms of pricing. Unrakugama will satisfy your pottery craving, regardless of budget or taste.

Address: 9-2 Kawata Kiyomizuyaki Danchicho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto (see on Google Maps)

Website: unrakugama.com

Hours: 9am to 5pm, everyday.

Transport: 2 Minute walk from Kiyomizu-yaki Danchi station.

8. Toutensei

© Pelican / Flickr Creative Commons, Kutani-Yaki Cup

Toutensei is an 8th generation Kyoto pottery store that prides itself in its deep-rooted customs. A Tsubo-Niwa style courtyard garden compliments the aged wooden building, which was first established 110 years ago. From sake sets to matcha mixing bowls, this shop specializes in all things related to Japanese drinkware. A special tea ceremony experience is available with reservation, for which matcha and small snacks are provided. This is a great spot for some casual browsing and relaxation after investigating the various temples in the area.

Japanese ceramics has a fascinating history, and an even more exciting future. To find out more, take a look at our interview with the Arita Porcelain Lab. Arita is a fascinating destination for ceramic fans. Find out about some of the others in 22 Ceramic Towns You Should Visit!

Address: 5-463 Gojobashi-higashi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see on Google Maps)

Website: toutensei.com

Hours: 10:30am to 6pm. 11am to 5:30pm on Sunday.

Transport: 2 Minute walk from Gojozaka bus station.

9. Kyototoujikikaikan

The Kyototoujikikaikan, or Kyoto Ceramic Center, has been promoting Kyoto ceramic practices and displaying various works for over sixty years. The center has a permanent exhibition space that is home to classical artworks, which can give you some perspective as to how the practice has evolved over time. There is also a section for special exhibitors, which has more contemporary pieces available for purchase. This is an excellent way to learn more about the history of ceramics before venturing through the various shops of Kyoto for some classic omiyage (souvenirs) of your own.

Address: 583-1 Yugyomaecho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see on Google Maps)

Website: kyototoujikikaikan.or.jp

Hours: 10am to 6pm, closed on Thursday.

10. Japan Objects Store

Kyoyaki Bamboo Sake Set, available at Japan Objects Store

If you don’t have plans to travel to Kyoto soon, you can purchase hand crafted kyo-yaki from our site. At Japan Objects Store, we offer a select range of high-end kyo-yaki ceramics that can be shipped worldwide in a box signed by the artist. Follow our link here to see more.

Kyo-yaki is renowned for its timeless elegance and sophisticated designs but perhaps, most importantly, it represents the long history of Japanese ceramics which is constantly evolving with the times. Whether you prefer the intricately painted flowers, the bright colors or the wabi-sabi rustic feel, we hope you find a kyo-yaki piece that perfectly complements your home and fits into your everyday life.

For further information on kyo-yaki, such as how to care for your ceramics, check out our full article on kyo-yaki here.