Day 3 began with a smile! Ms. Munakata’s warm welcome felt like returning home. Every year, I visit the Shimoura Bentenkai team, who continue the tradition of making clay dolls to preserve their local culture. I always look forward to their hand-squeezed local citrus too—simple, pure, and deeply refreshing.
This time, I saw their original clay dolls —lined up quietly, full of history—and also a new Shishi lion doll, both fierce and playful at once. My special-order Noren curtain, made from vintage local flags, was ready as well. They even gifted me a matching head wrap from the same material.
Photo time with the matching pieces—of course!
Thank you, Keiko and Aiko, for your open hearts, every single time. I can’t wait to visit again.
Next stop: Yamanokuchi Kiln.
Over coffee, I caught up with the craftsman Yasuo Tsujiguchi, the second generation of the kiln. Yasuo shared happy news—his son, Jun, has decided to continue the family craft.
The expanded workshop now holds two generations, working side by side.
I spotted some old rice bowls Yasuo had made for his children when they were small. Jun explained that he grew up eating from his father’s pieces—such a beautiful, everyday way to connect with your roots.
Yasuo’s wife runs a café right next door, and the aroma of her cooking drifted into the workshop as I selected pieces. I didn’t have time for lunch this visit, but next time, for sure.
Third stop: Maruo Kiln.
Founded in 1845, Maruo is the oldest and largest family-run kiln in Amakusa. Nearly every local ceramicist has trained here. After the 6th-generation master passed away two years ago, his sons—Yuya, the eldest, and Hiroki, the second—stepped in to carry on the legacy.
I was lucky to see Yuya in action, working on a large order for a local bank. The last time I saw him was at a local izakaya (laugh)—so it was a special treat to see him so focused at the wheel.
Hiroki and his wife, Shige, also have their own work on display. With such a long family history, the showroom is vast, layered with stories.
Shige treated me to her beautifully prepared matcha. She grew up in a temple, and her preparation carried that quiet, reverent touch.
We ended with a group photo: Shige, Hiroki, Yuya’s wife, and their daughter—a whole family tied together by craft and care.
Before leaving, we had a lunch together. The kind of warm, fun moment that stays with you..!
Fourth stop: Ayoo Pottery.
Founded by the third son of the Maruo family, Ayoo Pottery is quietly preparing for an upcoming exhibition.
I didn’t select any pieces this time, but we had a wonderful conversation. Hopefully, in two years, we can work together on a larger collection.
As always, the visit ended with a quiet moment by the engawa window—watching the Koinobori flags flutter above.
A long, full day.
To be continued… Day 4 coming soon...
