Surrounded by lush green mountains on the island of Kyushu lies the famous porcelain town of Arita. I arrived the day before a typhoon was expected to roll through the island. Inexperienced with natural disasters in foreign lands, I considered if I should change my itinerary and just bunker down somewhere until it was all over. However, my great desire to witness the Shinemon Kiln’s master artisans in their element outweighed any notions of playing it safe. Throwing caution to the wind – literally – I set off to what would become one of the most exhilarating experiences of my journey through Japan.
Stepping inside the Shinemon shop and slipping off my shoes, I followed the stairs up to a room filled with jewel-like porcelain pieces of all shapes and sizes gleaming back at me. Such a beautiful array!
The family was extremely friendly and hospitable, and I felt instantly at ease as they served me tea in the most stunningly beautiful porcelain cup I had ever laid eyes on. We conversed via an interesting combination of the Japanese and English languages before Mr. Kusuo Baba and Mr. Hisakazu Baba guided me towards the studio behind the shop where all the magic happens.
Sun rays flowed freely through the windows, lighting up the spacious studio. Dozens of wooden planks lined with hundreds of ceramics were stacked rack upon rack throughout. Around us were artisans working diligently on each step of the process.
Full article on The Kindcraft website!
Shinemon Kiln
| 真右ェ門窯 |
Nanbarukou 200, Arita-cho, Nishimatsuura-gun, Saga, Japan (佐賀県西松浦郡有田町南原甲200)
33°11’12.1″N 129°52’19.1″E