ENGLISH PAGE
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Preserving Tradition, Creating the Future
At Seihyo Kiln, we do more than inherit tradition—we continually strive to create new value that meets the needs of modern times.
Our work is guided by three principles: the pursuit of rare techniques, harmony with nature, and an enduring spirit of craftsmanship.
We believe the future of traditional industries lies not in exploiting nature, but in creating beauty that exists in harmony with it.
As members of a circular society, we pursue environmentally conscious aesthetics and share the new value of Nabeshima Imari ware with the world.
For us, there is nothing impossible for those who weave wisdom and skill through experience.
With this belief, we continue to walk the path of innovation within tradition.
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A Technique Unique to Seihyo Kiln in All of Japan
Seihyo Kiln’s most remarkable distinction lies in its overglaze painting technique using transparent red pigments—
a skill possessed by no other kiln in Japan.
The beauty born from the flames is something that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
We also preserve the use of natural pigments such as indigo blue, yamamomo pink, and suou red—a tradition continued only by Seihyo Kiln in the Imari and Arita region.
Unlike synthetic pigments, natural dyes seep into the clay, creating a gentle, soft hue that feels truly organic.
Furthermore, while most Imari ware uses refined white clay, Seihyo Kiln intentionally uses unrefined clay to express the raw beauty of natural materials and reduce environmental impact.
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Okawachiyama, the Secret Kiln Village
In 1675, the Nabeshima Domain moved its official kiln deep into the mountains of Okawachiyama to protect its techniques from being disclosed.
Selected craftsmen were gathered here to produce exquisite tableware for the lord’s household and as gifts for the shogunate.
These works never entered the market and remained unseen by the public until the Meiji era.
Strict control over craftsmanship and an uncompromising pursuit of quality earned this place its name, “the Secret Kiln Village.”
Most works now known as Nabeshima ware were fired here in Okawachiyama.
As the rightful successor to this Nabeshima domain kiln, Seihyo Kiln carries on 350 years of tradition, technique, and spirit into the present day.
Encounter Extraordinary Pottery Amid the Nature of Okawachiyama
SHOP Touhako & Gallery Tsuchi-no-Hana
Surrounded by the rich nature of Okawachiyama, SHOP Touhako offers a wide selection—from Seihyo Kiln’s latest creations to exclusive original pieces.
On the second floor, Gallery Tsuchi-no-Hana features monthly exhibitions where visitors can enjoy artworks that can only be seen here.
SHOP INFOMATION
- Address
- 1982 Otsu, Okawachicho, Imari City, Saga Prefecture
- Hours
- 10：00 – 17：00
- Closed
- Irregular holidays
- Tel
A Special Tea Time with Seihyo Kiln Tableware
Cafe Hibiki
Enjoy coffee or tea while experiencing the texture and feel of Seihyo Kiln’s handcrafted pieces.
If you find a piece you love, you can purchase it directly at SHOP Touhako next door—a unique feature of Cafe Hibiki.
Relax in the serene nature of Okawachiyama and savor a special moment with tableware infused with the craftsmanship of Seihyo artisans.
SHOP INFOMATION
- Address
- 1982 Otsu, Okawachicho, Imari City, Saga Prefecture
- Hours
- 10:00 – 17:00 (Last Order 16:40)
- Closed
- Irregular holidays
- Tel
Another Seihyo Kiln You Can Visit Casually
SHOP Shinpu
Born from the desire to let more people enjoy Imari ware in everyday life, SHOP Shinpu offers a casual, accessible experience.
Here you’ll find affordable tableware perfect for daily use, as well as unique items such as Imari ware mousepads and clips—pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
SHOP INFOMATION
- Address
- 1982 Otsu, Okawachicho, Imari City, Saga Prefecture
- Hours
- 10：00 – 17：00
- Closed
- Irregular holidays
- TEL
©Copyright2025 Imari Nabeshima Seihyo Kiln.All Rights Reserved.