We the Shigaraki Shared Studio (SSS) are here to help you with a rare and authentic journey to one of Japan's most famous ceramic centers. SSS is more than a place to view ceramics; it is an invitation to truly experience the soul of Shigaraki. The trip I arrange to Shigaraki allow each visitor to have a deep, personal connection to the area and experience the local culture in depth.
At Shigaraki Share Studio, we offer exclusive access to ceramic artists' private studios, local pottery manufacturers not open to the public, and the remains of ancient climbing kilns that reveal the history and craftsmanship behind Shigaraki’s legendary ceramics. These rare experiences allow you to connect with the authentic spirit of Shigaraki’s pottery legacy, offering an intimate view of the artistry that has made the town famous worldwide. But Shigaraki is more than just its pottery. Our carefully crafted itineraries also guide you through the picturesque Asamiya district, home to one of Japan’s first tea plantations, where the region’s prized teas are grown. Tasting Asamiya Tea is not just a sensory experience—it’s a journey into the heart of Shigaraki’s history. And no visit to this vibrant region would be complete without experiencing the area’s delicious cuisine, served on locally made Shigaraki ceramics. Every dish you enjoy is infused with the craftsmanship and artistry that define this unique region. There are also ample opportunities for visitors to explore the sake breweries located in Koka City, of which Shigaraki Town is a part. Koka City, renowned for its rice production, pristine water, and the creation of some of Japan’s finest ceramic ware, offers an ideal backdrop for exploring sake brewing traditions. We can introduce you to local sake breweries, where you can taste and learn about the production of exceptional sake, further enhancing your experience of this captivating region. For travel agents looking to provide a seamless, one-of-a-kind experience for their clients, we can connect you with trusted land operators in Japan. These professionals will ensure that every detail of your client’s trip is handled with care, local expertise, and the personal touches of Shigaraki Share Studio to deliver unforgettable experiences. At Shigaraki Share Studio, we curate more than just a visit—we create an opportunity to truly understand and experience Shigaraki, Japan’s foremost town of pottery. With our personalized, curated itineraries, your journey through Shigaraki will be an unforgettable exploration of art, culture, and heritage. Contact us today, and let’s craft the perfect Shigaraki experience, tailored to you and your clients.
Shigaraki MuseumShigaraki ware is thought to have started 750 years ago, in the mid-13th century. Cultivated by a long history and tradition, Shigaraki ware has supported the local economy as a local industry with the changing times. In order to support efforts such as securing and training successors to inherit traditional techniques and developing new products that utilize traditional techniques and methods, Shigaraki ware was designated as a traditional craft in September 1975 based on the purpose of the "Law Concerning the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries" enacted in May 1974. The Shigaraki Traditional Industry Hall was built with support from the national and prefectural governments on this occasion. The hall serves as a facility where visitors can experience the charm of Shigaraki ware, and also serves as a base for Shigaraki tourism, by hosting various planned exhibitions that introduce materials and history related to Shigaraki ware.
2.Experience making pottery in a Shigaraki potter's studio
This course offers the opportunity to experience the techniques and traditions that Shigaraki ware has developed over time. After a visit to the Shigaraki Share Studio, a collaborative space for artists, and an introduction to the area's history, including the modern development of Shigaraki ware, participants will engage in pottery making for 2 to 10 days at a Shigaraki pottery kiln or an artist's studio. The course is designed for those with prior pottery experience and will be tailored to your specific requests.
Duration: 2 to 10 days
Number of participants: 1 to 2 people
Price: ¥40,000 to ¥50,000 per person per day (depending on the need for an interpreter and the level of material arrangement)
Please note that while we coordinate with potters and studios, their availability to accommodate requests may vary, and adjustments may be necessary.
3. Visit Potter’s Studio and Factories
Many ceramic artists have studios in Shigaraki, and there are many pottery factories as well. At SSS, we arrange individual tours of artists’ studios and pottery workshops.
Each artist and workshop is different. Please let us know what you want to see, where you want to go, and who you want to meet. We will arrange a tour that accommodates your wishes as much as possible.
4. Meals
Enjoy delicious meals in Shigaraki, served on locally crafted ceramics. Let us know your preferences, including dietary requirements, and we’ll suggest the best restaurants in the area.
Discover Shigaraki with Shigaraki Share Studio
We the Shigaraki Shared Studio (SSS) are here to help you with a rare and authentic journey to one of Japan's most famous ceramic centers. SSS is more than a place to view ceramics; it is an invitation to truly experience the soul of Shigaraki. The trip I arrange to Shigaraki allow each visitor to have a deep, personal connection to the area and experience the local culture in depth.
At Shigaraki Share Studio, we offer exclusive access to ceramic artists' private studios, local pottery manufacturers not open to the public, and the remains of ancient climbing kilns that reveal the history and craftsmanship behind Shigaraki’s legendary ceramics. These rare experiences allow you to connect with the authentic spirit of Shigaraki’s pottery legacy, offering an intimate view of the artistry that has made the town famous worldwide.
But Shigaraki is more than just its pottery. Our carefully crafted itineraries also guide you through the picturesque Asamiya district, home to one of Japan’s first tea plantations, where the region’s prized teas are grown. Tasting Asamiya Tea is not just a sensory experience—it’s a journey into the heart of Shigaraki’s history. And no visit to this vibrant region would be complete without experiencing the area’s delicious cuisine, served on locally made Shigaraki ceramics. Every dish you enjoy is infused with the craftsmanship and artistry that define this unique region.
There are also ample opportunities for visitors to explore the sake breweries located in Koka City, of which Shigaraki Town is a part. Koka City, renowned for its rice production, pristine water, and the creation of some of Japan’s finest ceramic ware, offers an ideal backdrop for exploring sake brewing traditions. We can introduce you to local sake breweries, where you can taste and learn about the production of exceptional sake, further enhancing your experience of this captivating region.
For travel agents looking to provide a seamless, one-of-a-kind experience for their clients, we can connect you with trusted land operators in Japan. These professionals will ensure that every detail of your client’s trip is handled with care, local expertise, and the personal touches of Shigaraki Share Studio to deliver unforgettable experiences.
At Shigaraki Share Studio, we curate more than just a visit—we create an opportunity to truly understand and experience Shigaraki, Japan’s foremost town of pottery. With our personalized, curated itineraries, your journey through Shigaraki will be an unforgettable exploration of art, culture, and heritage. Contact us today, and let’s craft the perfect Shigaraki experience, tailored to you and your clients.
Michio Sugiyama
Director; Shigaraki Share Studio
> Short Resume Michio Sugiyama
> Shigaraki Share Studio
1. Visiting Museums
The hall serves as a facility where visitors can experience the charm of Shigaraki ware, and also serves as a base for Shigaraki tourism, by hosting various planned exhibitions that introduce materials and history related to Shigaraki ware.
2.Experience making pottery in a Shigaraki potter's studio
This course offers the opportunity to experience the techniques and traditions that Shigaraki ware has developed over time. After a visit to the Shigaraki Share Studio, a collaborative space for artists, and an introduction to the area's history, including the modern development of Shigaraki ware, participants will engage in pottery making for 2 to 10 days at a Shigaraki pottery kiln or an artist's studio. The course is designed for those with prior pottery experience and will be tailored to your specific requests.
Please note that while we coordinate with potters and studios, their availability to accommodate requests may vary, and adjustments may be necessary.
3. Visit Potter’s Studio and Factories
Many ceramic artists have studios in Shigaraki, and there are many pottery factories as well. At SSS, we arrange individual tours of artists’ studios and pottery workshops.
Each artist and workshop is different. Please let us know what you want to see, where you want to go, and who you want to meet. We will arrange a tour that accommodates your wishes as much as possible.
4. Meals
Enjoy delicious meals in Shigaraki, served on locally crafted ceramics. Let us know your preferences, including dietary requirements, and we’ll suggest the best restaurants in the area.