Ultimate Kutani: Ceramic Art, Cuisine & Sake
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Port
Kanazawa, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$880
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
This exclusive outing is a rare opportunity to visit the distinguished Tokuda Yasokichi Kiln, where both the first and third generations of the same family were designated holders of Important Intangible Cultural Properties of Japan (Living National Treasures). Witness firsthand the creative environment in which traditional ceramics craftsmanship is elevated to the realm of fine art.
Your journey begins with a visit to the Nishikigama Exhibition Hall — a site designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property. Explore this historic setting that preserves the former Tokuda Yasokichi residence, the kiln storehouse, and a stone warehouse. Masterpieces, including Ko-Kutani ceramic works and pieces spanning the first through fourth generations, reveal how the Tokuda lineage established its singular aesthetic of color, passed down from father to son.
Lunch is served at an authentic Japanese restaurant where seasonal ingredients from Hokuriku are prepared with refined sensitivity. Presented on Kutaniware and Wajima lacquerware, each dish is a harmonious synthesis of taste and style — an expression of Kaga's elegant hospitality shaped by land, sea, and artisanship.
Finally, visit the Tokuda Yasokichi Kiln, where a fourth-generation master or his assistant guides you through the atelier. The innovative Saiyu technique (colored glaze) employs approximately 70 distinct glazes to create vast, singular complexities expressed through color gradations. The secret formulations of these hues have been passed down through four generations and continue to develop new artistic frontiers. View the works and purchase a beautiful piece to take home if you wish.
Tour a local sake (rice wine) brewery and gain insight into the sake-making process. A tasting experience deepens your appreciation and understanding of this sublime Japanese cultural element, and you will receive a handcrafted guinomi (sake cup) from the Tokuda Yasokichi Kiln, yours to take home.
This exceptional one-day experience is to be savored with all five senses.
Please note: Tour capacity is very limited. Workspace at the kiln is limited; visitors will take turns observing the crafting process. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Tour requires walking and standing. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Mobility devices (wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc) cannot be accommodated on the transportation. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Bring local currency, as most vendors do not accept US dollars or credit cards. Tour sequence may vary.