Welcome to Karatsupots

I am a potter making functional stoneware in the Karatsu tradition. Gotanbayashigama 「五反林窯」is the name of my kiln and studio in Taku, Japan. Karatsupots is the name of my website and blog.

What is Karatsu?

Karatsu ware is named after the port from which it was shipped. Pots known as Karatsu ware were made in a wide area surrounding the town of Karatsu, including Matsuura, Taku, Takeo, and Hirado.

Karatsu ware is at its heart, simple and functional. It is unique in that it improves with age. Karatsu ware that emerges from the kiln is only partially complete, and the full extent of its beauty revealed only after years of use. This is one reason why old Karatsu ware has been historically prized by collectors and tea ceremony practitioners alike.

A Potter's Blog

If you are interested in reading more about Karatsu ware, please check out the Karatsupots Blog