Shigaraki Kotōkan, Ceramics museum in Kōka, Japan.
Shigaraki Kotōkan is a ceramics museum in the Shiga region displaying traditional Shigaraki ware alongside modern works by local potters. The collections show different techniques and styles that have shaped pottery production here over time.
Founded in 1991, the museum documents ancient firing techniques from Shigaraki, one of Japan's six oldest kiln centers. Pottery production in this region extends back several centuries.
The museum displays Shigaraki ware marked by rough surfaces and natural ash glazes from wood-fired kilns, which define the room's visual character. These pieces reflect how potters here have worked with local clay for generations.
The museum offers access to exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations of traditional ceramic techniques for visitors. Plan time to view the works and participate in hands-on activities if interested.
The museum maintains specialized storage conditions to protect ceramics while allowing visitors to examine craftsmanship details closely. This balance between protection and access is uncommon with such delicate objects.
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