【History】
Mino ware is one of Japan’s leading ceramics with a history of over 1,300 years, and it originated in the Tōnō region of present-day Gifu Prefecture (including Tajimi City, Toki City, Mizunami City, and Kani City).It is said to have begun with the firing of Sue ware (sueki) — a hard type of pottery introduced from the Korean Peninsula — in anagama (cave kilns) built into the mountain slopes.
Throughout its long history, Mino ware has not been bound by any particular style and has produced a wide variety of pottery in response to the changing times.As a result, it has become a major production area that accounts for more than 50% of Japan’s ceramic output today.In addition, 15 types of Mino ware have been designated by the government as Traditional Crafts of Japan, making it a representative example of Japan’s ceramic culture.

【Characteristics】
The greatest feature of Mino ware lies in its variety of styles and richness of expression. Among them, the following four are the most representative:

Oribe ware (織部焼 / Oribeyaki)
Characterized by a deep green glaze and geometric designs. There are also variations such as Kuro-Oribe (Black Oribe) and Ao-Oribe (Blue Oribe).

Setoguro (瀬戸黒 / Setoguro)
Covered entirely with a black glaze, this style is also called Tenshōguro or Hikidashiguro due to its unique method of being pulled out from the kiln while still red-hot.

Shino ware (志野焼 / Shinoyaki)
The charm lies in the patterns applied beneath the glaze and the soft reddish tones and foamy texture created by the feldspar glaze. It is also known as Japan’s first white pottery.

Kizeto (黄瀬戸 / Kizeto)
Characterized by a simple yet warm yellow color, Kizeto has been attracting renewed attention in recent years. Its modest yet elegant beauty is especially appealing.