Ogatayama Pottery Village

Overview

Ogatayama Pottery Village, located in Hita City, Oita Prefecture, is a traditional pottery village established in 1705 by Yanase San'emon. Ogatayama pottery is crafted using time-honored techniques, including crushing the clay with water-powered *karuus* and firing it in traditional wood-fired climbing kilns (*noborigama*). Its simple, warm-hearted pottery has long been cherished as everyday tableware. The village gained national recognition after a visit from renowned British potter Bernard Leach in 1954 and was designated an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1995. The sound of the *karuus* grinding clay is also listed as one of Japan's 100 Soundscapes, and the entire area is designated as an Important Cultural Landscape. Many kilns continue to operate in Ogatayama, preserving tradition while creating unique pieces. Visitors are captivated by the simple beauty and warmth of Ogatayama pottery, finding inspiration to enrich their daily lives. Ogatayama Pottery Village is a heartwarming place where tradition and nature harmonize.