years of ceramic history. Tokoname leads Japan in both the production and market share of bonsai pots, while its traditional red-clay teapots account for around 90% of the domestic market.
Begin along the atmospheric Pottery Footpath, where brick chimneys, historic kilns, ceramic-lined slopes, and small workshops reveal how pottery has shaped the town for generations.
Then step inside Gyokko Toen, a renowned workshop specializing in Tokoname teapots. Meet third-generation Traditional Craftsman Yukitaka Umehara and see how specialized artisans divide each stage of production—from clay preparation and forming to decoration and firing—to maintain both quality and efficient production. Explore traditional Tokoname techniques such as *tobikanna*, which creates rhythmic carved patterns, and *mogake*, in which seaweed leaves distinctive markings on the clay during firing.
Continue to Koyo Toen, where fourth-generation artisan Juko creates bonsai pots distinguished by their beautiful Oribe glaze. In the gallery, admire the depth and variation of the rich green glaze while hearing directly from the artisan about his approach to form, color, and craftsmanship.
Meet your professional, English-speaking guide at the Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center. From Nagoya, travel by train to Tokoname.
Stroll through Tokoname’s atmospheric pottery district, where more than 1,000 years of ceramic history remain part of everyday life.
Walk past historic kilns, towering brick chimneys, the famous Clay Pipe Hill, and charming
Step inside Gyokko Toen, a renowned Tokoname teapot workshop led by third-generation Traditional Craftsman Yukitaka Umehara.
Discover how specialist artisans work together across different stages of production, from preparing the clay and shaping each piece to decoration and firing.
Learn about distinctive Tokoname techniques including tobikanna, which creates rhythmic carved patterns across the surface, and mogake, a traditional firing technique using seaweed to create organic markings on the clay. The workshop is also committed to training younger craftspeople, offering a rare glimpse into how generations of knowledge and skill are passed forward.
Discover another celebrated side of Tokoname ceramics at Koyo Toen, where fourth-generation artisan Juko specializes in bonsai pots. He is particularly known for his Oribe-glazed pieces, whose deep green tones and expressive surfaces have attracted bonsai enthusiasts.
Browse the gallery and see a variety of works while hearing directly from the artisan about Oribe glaze, bonsai pot design, and the ideas and techniques behind his creations.
Travel back to Nagoya with your guide.
Guests who would prefer to spend more time in Tokoname may end the tour there instead, leaving time for lunch and further exploration around the Pottery Footpath.
Arrive back at Nagoya Station, where the tour concludes.
Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center
This tour includes walking along the Tokoname Pottery Footpath. Please be aware that parts of the route include slopes and uneven surfaces.
This package tour includes statutory accident compensation in accordance with Japan’s Travel Agency Act. We also recommend that travelers purchase their own travel insurance for broader medical and travel-related coverage.
This experience is booked on request. We will respond to the request within 5 days
| Cancellation Date | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| No-show or cancellation after tour departure | 100% of the tour price |
| On the tour date | 50% of the tour price |
| 1 day prior to the tour date | 40% of the tour price |
| 2 to 7 days prior to the tour date | 30% of the tour price |
| 8 to 10 days prior to the tour date | 20% of the tour price |
| 11 or more days prior to the tour date | Free |
Tokoname City
