Tokoname: Discovering the Trending Pottery Village Near Nagoya

The first village you'll encounter upon landing at Nagoya's Chubu Centrair International Airport (Centrair), but it's far too captivating to just pass by. For travelers seeking to escape the bustling city and immerse themselves in Japan's unique, charming aesthetics, 'Tokoname' is an excellent choice. We invite you to this special pottery village, built on a thousand-year history as one of Japan's six ancient kilns, now adorned with the charm of cute cats and artistic sensibilities.


Walking Through Time: The Yakimono Sanpo-michi (Pottery Promenade)

Your journey officially begins at the 'Yakimono Sanpo-michi' (Pottery Promenade), which best showcases Tokoname's identity. As you wander through the maze-like alleys, you'll see the village's iconic red brick chimneys soaring towards the sky, and retaining walls made of stacked discarded pottery pipes and sake bottles creating a unique geometric beauty.

The massive staircase kiln, 'Noborigama', which operated from 1887, is a source of Tokoname's pride. Strolling among the kiln sites, where the passion of past artisans seems to linger, offers both comfort from the old and artistic inspiration. This path, where you greet pottery cats peeking from every wall, is a continuous stream of 'Instagrammable' moments that will keep your camera shutter busy.


Spaces Crafted with Sophisticated Taste: Tokoname Store

After enjoying the traditional alley walk, it's time to head to the 'Tokoname Store', where modern sensibilities are added. With its open, high ceilings reminiscent of a renovated warehouse and a clean white interior, this is a complex cultural space where you can experience the 'present' of Tokoname pottery.

The pastel-colored tableware from the signature brand 'TOKONAME' here boasts a sophisticated charm distinct from rustic traditional pottery. It's not just for browsing; you can also get hands-on and create your own pottery in the spacious and comfortable workshop area. Enjoying a fragrant cup of coffee served in Tokoname pottery at the cafe corner, you'll be amazed at how perfectly tradition and modernity can blend.