What is Kyo-yaki / Kiyomizu-yaki?

Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki are general terms referring to ceramics produced in Kyoto.

Generally, "Kyo-yaki" is used as a comprehensive term for ceramics made in Kyoto, while "Kiyomizu-yaki" specifically refers to pottery that developed around Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gojo-zaka. Today, both are often collectively called "Kyo-yaki / Kiyomizu-yaki" and are cherished as one of Kyoto's representative traditional crafts.

Characteristics of Kyo-yaki / Kiyomizu-yaki

Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki do not adhere to a single defined style of color or shape.

They encompass a wide variety of techniques and expressions, such as sometsuke (underglaze blue), iroe (overglaze enamels), kin-sai (gold decoration), kochi (three-color glaze), tenmoku, and kohiki (powdering glaze), ranging from ornate to rustic and modern.
This diversity stems from Kyoto's long history as the capital, where it developed in conjunction with various cultures, including the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, temple and shrine culture, and court culture.

By incorporating new techniques and designs in response to the preferences of users and changing times, each kiln established its unique style.

This breadth is the great appeal of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki.

Kyoto pottery nurtured by many master artisans

Kyoto's pottery has developed over a long history, with many master artisans, including Nonomura Ninsei and Ogata Kenzan, establishing their unique expressions.

Gojo-zaka and the area around Kiyomizu-dera Temple have long been known as gathering places for potters, where techniques and designs were refined. Today, while inheriting that tradition, many works incorporating new sensibilities are being created.

From everyday tableware to artist works

Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki encompass a wide range of items, from everyday tableware like rice bowls, tea cups, plates, and bowls, to tea ceremony utensils, flower vases, incense burners, and decorative plates.

There are items that can be casually used on a daily basis, as well as one-of-a-kind artist pieces and highly artistic works.

The fact that such a wide range of expressions can be found within a single production area is another fascinating aspect of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki.

The techniques inherited in Kyoto and new sensibilities.

Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki are still being produced today, with both coexisting.