Hi, this is Eri.
When we think of pottery, we often picture the shape, the glaze, or the final beauty of the piece.
But today, I’d like to talk about something more fundamental—the clay.
Mino ware, the traditional ceramic ware of Gifu Prefecture, has a history of over 1,300 years.
And one of the biggest reasons it flourished here is the natural gift of high-quality clay found in the region.
In particular, the Gotomaki area of Toki City has long been known for producing exceptionally fine clay.
This clay is highly plastic, which means it’s easy to shape by hand.
It also stays stable during firing and produces strong, durable pieces.
On top of that, it pairs beautifully with glazes—making it ideal for ceramic tableware.
Even today, many Mino ware studios still use clay from Gotomaki.
So when we look at a finished piece of Mino ware, we’re really seeing the power of the land itself, shaped by human hands.
Surrounded by mountains and forests, generations of people in this region have dug, formed, and fired clay with care.
This deep connection between nature and craftsmanship is at the heart of every piece.
Mino ware continues to evolve with the times, but its story always begins with the clay.
Not just design.
Not just tradition.
It’s the quiet strength of the earth—and the people who shape it—that makes Mino ware so special.
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