Tsugaru Karasugi Pottery] Pottery made in the world's largest climbing kiln!

  • Aomori
  • Sightseeing
Stunning natural glaze large jar
There are many types of pottery in various parts of Japan, but there is one pottery in Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture, that holds the record for being the world's longest climbing kiln.
It is called Tsugaru Ujoyaki, and is one of the well-known crafts of the Tsugaru region, both inside and outside of the prefecture.
Here we will introduce the history and characteristics of Ujyoyaki.

The Beginning of Karasugi Pottery

Imai Rikatsura Pottery
Tsugaru Karasujo-yaki was established by the self-taught potter Rikatsura Imai.
Mr. Imai began his career as a potter at the age of 26, and has been making pottery with a focus on "climbing kilns" and "natural glaze.
First, he built a 70-meter climbing kiln in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, followed by a 100-meter climbing kiln in Kashiwazaki City, Niigata Prefecture.
Last year, he worked on a project to fire works in a large climbing kiln in Kuroishi City, which is the world's longest climbing kiln at 103 meters!

The world's longest climbing kiln

The world's longest climbing kiln
Mr. Imai is from Aomori Prefecture and was determined to build a climbing kiln in his hometown to finish his pottery.
For a climbing kiln, clay for the pottery and firewood for fuel can be ordered, but a gentle slope suitable for a climbing kiln and a large firewood storage area are required.
A suitable site was found in Toyooka, Kuroishi City.
The world's longest climbing kiln, 103 meters long, was built from scratch over a period of 22 years, and was certified as a Guinness World Record in August 2019!
If you visit the site, you will surely be overwhelmed by the dignity of the climbing kiln.

Various unique works of art

Wusong ware sake cups
Tsugaru Karasujo-yaki is a softly curved, handmade pottery suitable for a variety of uses, including dining and flower arranging.
The main feature of this pottery is that no glaze is used.
Using only materials found in nature, such as water, wood, clay, and fire, the surface of each vessel is covered with a mysterious pattern of melted red pine ashes, making no two vessels alike.
Because we leave everything to nature, we feel that words cannot describe the excitement of creating beautiful pieces that surpass the imagination.

Sansuji Studio, where you can experience the fascination of pottery

A view of the gallery
The Tsugaru Karasujo-yaki Sansuji Studio is divided into an old pottery hall and a Karasujo-yaki gallery, where visitors can see and touch a wide variety of pottery and artwork.
The Old Ceramic Gallery is a museum where many of the Rokko Kiln pots, Ko-Imari, and old Chinese and Korean ceramics that have greatly influenced Rikkei Imai are on permanent display.
You will be absorbed in looking at the works that have a strong presence.
The Wuseong Pottery Gallery displays many pieces that were actually fired in the large ascent kiln, and if you find something you like, you can purchase it on the spot.
In addition to magnificent pots, there are also flat plates, teacups, beer cups, and other tableware for daily use, as well as tea utensils, so you may find your favorite!

Tsugaru Tea Ceremony Museum

A Japanese-style room with an atmospheric feel
The Tsugaru Tea Ceremony Museum is located a short walk up the hill from the Misuji Studio.
The museum displays many valuable tea ceremony utensils, mainly collected by Rikei Imai.
The museum has a tea ceremony room with a mizuya and a Japanese-style room, which can be reserved in advance for a private tea ceremony!
Matcha and sweets served in Karasujo-ware containers are so delicious that we hope you will find an opportunity to enjoy them at least once.

Tsugaru Karasujo-yaki is full of charm. If you are ever in the neighborhood, please stop by!
Click here for the official website of Wajo-yaki
Tags related to this article
Previous post Back to list Next
related articles