Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Kyo-yaki (Kyo ware) and Kiyomizu-yaki (Kiyomizu ware)?

Pottery produced under the name of Ninsei, Kenzan, Awataguchi-yaki and Kokiyomizu was collectively called Kyo ware.
Later, when the name Kiyomizu ware became popular, “Kyo ware/Kiyomizu ware” was the name that was used to refer to these traditional craftworks.
Today, Kyo ware is more associated with the ceramics used for the tea ceremony, while Kiyomizu ware is more associated with the type of pottery influenced by Kutani ware and Arita ware, which made Kiyomizu ware popular.

Are there any distinct differences between Kyo ware and other pottery in Japan?

There are many potteries located throughout Japan, and each pottery used to have its own unique way of crafting pottery that suited the local culture and conditions. The exchange of skills between potters in different areas over the years, and certain styles of pottery that were popular at various times, would influence the pottery in another place, and with the development of marketing and communications technology that trend has been accelerating. Nowadays, it has become difficult to distinguish the special characteristics of each area.
Being the center of Sado (tea ceremony) and Kado (flower arrangement), Kyoto has been home to many different styles and designs of pottery, such as ceramics, porcelain, high-fired unglazed (yakijime), ash glazed, hand-painted, blue and white ceramics, and so on.
It could be said that with Kyo ware/Kiyomizu ware, you are more likely to find items with a simple but elegant design that is appreciated by connoisseurs of tea ceremony bowls. This is because with Kyo ware/Kiyomizu ware there is a tradition of throwing and painting items with a variety of designs in small lots by hand.

Can you ship my order to me?

Yes, gladly.
We will carefully pack it and send it out by Yamato Transport TA-Q-BIN. You can specify the date and time of delivery (within Japan). Please refer to the rates table.

Can you gift-wrap my order?

Yes. We can wrap it appropriately for any occasion, including weddings and funerals.
We provide Noshi-gami (formal gift wrapping paper) and paper carry bags, too. Please feel free to ask.

If I want a product that is not on the website, what can I do?

If you have seen something you like in the shop, or if you are looking for a particular item, please feel free to ask us about it using the inquiry form or by calling us on the telephone. We will check availability and contact you.

I’d like you to make me something original…

We would be more than happy to make suggestions.
Just let us know what you would like and what you intend to use it for.

I am looking for an item to commemorate a special occasion. Is it possible for you to write something on it?

It is possible to write something on an item,
but exactly when it needs to be written depends on the nature of the item and the process involved in making it, so it’s best if you allow us plenty of time.

Can I return or exchange an item?

If you would like to return an item please contact us by e-mail or phone within 7 days of receiving the item.
If there is some kind of problem (damage during shipping, faulty products, etc.) we will bear the cost of return shipment.
If you would like to return an item because you made a mistake when ordering or because the item looks different from what you expected, please send it to us at your own expense.Please also note that we cannot accept an item once it has been used.