Friday, October 21, 2011

Tokoname: Breaking Down Further With Each Passing Day

 A Kiln chimney...it looks newer than the others.


 Let's get a fire going


 Remnants of past ceramics that were baked here.


 Extra ceramics available.



With an easy pour spout.

 No longer in use.





 Broken down factory


Leftovers of what used to be made here.

 Plenty of scrap metal to go around.


A complete break down.

Tokoname is a beautiful city, but many people that are left here are older or no longer live here. It's a shame that beautiful ceramics aren't being made as much as they used to be. I hope this art doesn't die out over time.

There is one gallery that is run by a Western man. He has choosen ceramics to be his medium. I believe you can visit his place and make some pottery. Of course, there are quite a few places to do this, but his place may be the only place where English is understood well. If you are worried about not understanding Japanese enough to make something there is the option of visiting his gallery. To find his gallery or any of the other galleries I recommend that you make a stop at the information office which is located in the train station! Very convenient and they have staff members that can speak English! Plus, there are maps and information books in English, Korean, Chinese and of course, Japanese!


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