Shigaraki
Shigaraki-yaki is a traditional pottery produced in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, Japan. It is mainly known for tea utensils and garden decorations. Its distinctive features include the texture of the clay and the unique glaze covering the surface. Shigaraki-yaki is cherished for its beautiful colors, patterns, and durability. Through a fusion of traditional techniques and modern designs, Shigaraki-yaki has gained popularity both domestically and internationally.Since the Jomon period over 10,000 years ago, Japan has had a rich history of pottery. Even today, pottery is actively produced in various regions across Japan. The allure of Japanese pottery lies in the beauty of its irregular forms created by hand. The thickness, texture, and uneven colors evoke a sense of natural beauty. Furthermore, each pottery-producing region in Japan has its own unique characteristics, allowing for a diverse range of aesthetics to be enjoyed. This beauty is recognized worldwide. In practices such as tea ceremony and ikebana (flower arranging), pottery plays a significant role. Thus, pottery in Japan continues to be an integral part of daily life, representing not only tableware but also artistic and spiritual expressions
