Guide
Established in 1999, the Seto New Century Craft Museum was created to foster the development of industry, art, and culture in the new era, leveraging the unique characteristics of Seto City, Aichi Prefecture. The facility is composed of three main areas: the Exhibition Hall, the Exchange Wing, and the Workshop Wing. It serves as a meeting point for Japanese traditional craftsmanship—specifically ceramics and glass art—and contemporary creative sensibilities. The Exhibition Hall is a reconstructed and renovated version of the former 'Old Seto Ceramics Display Hall,' allowing visitors to experience a seamless coexistence of historical atmosphere and modern presentation. Through these three distinct areas, you can gain a profound understanding of the cultural depth of Seto.
The museum plays a vital role in passing the unique heritage of the Seto region down to future generations. The building used for the Exhibition Hall was originally the 'Old Seto Ceramics Display Hall,' built in 1914 (Taisho 3) in the current Seto-kura area, which was later relocated and renovated. This historical structure holds significant value as a local cultural asset. Beyond being a mere exhibition space, the museum continues to support the development of Seto's industry and arts through hosting trainees, various special exhibitions, and cultural events.
The facility offers three distinct experiences. First, the Exhibition Hall features three galleries hosting special exhibitions of ceramics and glass art. Second, the Exchange Wing houses galleries where you can view and purchase works by the museum's trainees and specialized artists; it also features a charming cafe where you can enjoy coffee surrounded by beautiful artisan pieces. Finally, the Workshop Wing allows you to observe the creative process through large glass windows. Here, you can witness the precision of techniques such as pottery wheel throwing, hand-painting, and glass blowing.
Special exhibitions and events are held periodically in the Exhibition and Exchange wings. Because the themes change depending on the season, we highly recommend checking the latest information before your visit. Workshops in the Workshop Wing may also be held at specific times or on certain dates. For the best experience, visit during the bright daylight hours to clearly observe the artisans at work through the glass windows. The cafe is also a perfect spot to relax during a peaceful afternoon.
Visitors have the opportunity to connect with traditional craft techniques. The Workshop Wing occasionally hosts hands-on classes for pottery wheel throwing, painting, and glass blowing, providing a rare chance to learn these skills firsthand. Additionally, in the Exchange Wing's galleries, you can purchase the works on display. Whether it is a piece created by a trainee or a selection from a master artist, you can find a unique souvenir or a special treasure to take home.
There are several other facilities nearby that allow for a deeper exploration of Seto's culture. You can visit the 'Seto-kura Museum' to learn about the history of ceramics, the 'Seto Sometsuke Craft Museum' which specializes in blue-and-white porcelain techniques, or the 'Seto City Museum of Art.' Visiting these sites together will provide a comprehensive understanding of the craftsmanship culture in the Seto area.
As the facility houses many precious artworks, please observe proper museum etiquette. While there are no strict dress codes, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For payments at the shop or cafe, both cash and credit cards are accepted. While some English signage and information may be available, we recommend checking for detailed English support in advance. If you wish to participate in a workshop or specific event, advanced reservations are often required.