The porcelain produced in Arita (Arita ware)

Japanese porcelain was first produced in the early 17th century in Arita, Saga prefecture located in the northern part of Kyushu.
When Hideyoshi Toyotomi the ruler of Japan at that time, sent his army to invade Korea in the end of the 16th century, the feudal Lord Nabeshima forced a Korean master potter Ri Sam Pei and his potters group to come to Japan. Ri Sam Pei discovered high quality kaolin for porcelain on lzumiyama in Arita, and that he successfully produced white porcelain for the first time in Japan.

Izumiyama Quarry

The porcelain produced in Arita was exported to Europe where it became very popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. The exported porcelain was shipped from the nearby port town of Imari, and the porcelain produced in Arita at this time became widely known as Old-Imari ware.

Gen-emon Kiln

On our recent trip to Japan, we have a chance to visit the famous kiln, Gen-emon Kiln in Arita.
Gen-emon Kiln has established in 1753, one of the oldest kilns in Arita.
The original Gen-emon style based on the Imari styles has been established which successfully reflects contemporary tastes.
The most valuable point is that all producing processes are traditional hand-made style by skilful artists.

At the showroom,

Gen-emon Kiln

Address: 2726, Maruohei, Arita-cho Nishimatsuura-gun, Saga-ken 844-0023
Tel: +81 955-42-4164

Mondays – Saturdays: 0800~1730
Sundays: 0900~1700