Workshop
Perfect Day trip from Tokyo!
Mashiko, Tochigi
1.5 hours
Min 1, Max 2 (per experience)
Mashiko Pottery Wheel Experience
What you can expect
A hands on experience in English with local potter, Venice Aka!
Learn more about pottery in Mashiko and what makes it so unique
Be guided through spiral wedging and clockwise wheel throwing on a hump
Create your very own pottery piece using locally sourced Mashiko clay and traditional tools which will be glazed with traditional Tenmoku glaze afterwards
Location & how to get there
The easiest way to get here is by car which takes around 90 minutes from Tokyo. Free parking is available at the studio.
Read our guides on Driving in Japan and Renting a Car in Japan for more information
By train: Take the Tohoku Shinkansen from Ueno Station to Utsunomiya Station then take the 益子駅～ベルモール～宇都宮東武 bus from Platform 14 to 道祖土上 and walk for 5 minutes
The pottery studio is a 5 minute walk from the main Jonaizaka Street
Pick up is also available from pottery supply shop Kumiai or the giant Tanuki statue 10 mins before start time (please contact us if you require pick up)
Description
Shape your own piece using locally sourced Mashiko clay - the same clay that built this town's 150 year ceramics tradition!
In this 1.5 hour hands on pottery class, local potter, Venice Aka, guides you through spiral wedging and clockwise wheel throwing on a hump, along with using the traditional hand tools Mashiko potters have used for generations. Your finished piece is dipped in a rich, black oil spot Tenmoku glaze - one of the most striking finishes in Japanese ceramics.
No experience is required and all materials, tools and equipment are provided.
Your finished piece will be fired and shipped (the workshop fee includes glazing and firing, however shipping fees are charged separately - refer to the FAQs for more information)
Other things to note
Workshops will be held in English
Drinks and snacks will be provided
An apron will be provided, but please wear clothes that you don't mind getting a little dirty!
No prior experience is required. Participants must be at least 15 years old
How will I receive my finished piece? (shipping details)
Is parking available?
Will my clothes get dirty?
Is any prior experience available?
Can children participate in this experience?
