Pottery holds a significant place in Japanese culture and has links with many aspects of Japanese life and philosophy. There are numerous pottery centers across the country, and you can explore (and purchase!) different pieces at the National Pottery Fair.
The event takes place over five days at Himeji Castle, and includes pottery from around 30 famous production areas available to buy at great prices. There will be everything from Ishikawa's Kutani ware to Yamaguchi's Hagi ware, and plenty more.
Along with the wide variety of beautiful pottery types on offer, the event offers some hands-on experiences including a painting corner and a kintsugi area, where you can bring along chipped or broken pottery items and have them repaired with gold or other metals.
Getting there
Himeji Castle can be accessed in around 15 minutes on foot from Himeji Station's North Exit. Alternatively, buses and taxis are also available and will get you there in around 5 minutes.
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