Hello everyone,
This is Yokoyama, the owner of KOTOPOTTER.
The annual Kiyomizu-yaki village Festival is just around the corner! It’s a fun event where you can buy Kiyomizu-yaki directly from the kilns at reasonable prices. This year's event promises a pleasant day of exploration, with cooler autumn weather setting in after the long, hot summer in Kyoto.
Many pottery studios and artisans, who normally focus on creating in their workshops, will be attending, offering you a chance to find unique pieces. I’m personally excited to visit and discover new artists.
【48th Kiyomizu-yaki Village Festival】
The Kiyomizu-yaki Village Festival is held every October in Kyoto's Kiyomizu-yaki district, and this year marks its 48th edition. With direct access from Kyoto Station via a special bus service, it’s an easy event to attend!
In 2024, the festival will expand to include exhibitors with roots in Kyo and Kiyomizu pottery from around the Kansai region. Over 100 pottery-related businesses will gather in the Kiyomizu-yaki district this October!
Highlights of the Kiyomizu-yaki Village Festival
- A wide variety of exhibitors
- Conversations with the artisans
- A fun festival for the whole family
- Compete in pottery techniques at the T1 Grand Prix
1. A wide variety of exhibitors
While Kiyomizu-yaki is often associated with traditional, high-end tableware, it’s actually a region with few restrictions on technique or material. You’ll find everything from everyday dishware to tea ceremony items, highly artistic painted pieces, and modern forms. Kyoto, with its rich history, brings together a diverse range of exhibitors with roots in Kiyomizu pottery.
2. Conversations with the artisans
The festival is set up in a market-style with individual tents for each exhibitor. Enjoy engaging with the artisans, hearing their stories, and learning tips on how to best use their wares. It’s a chance to connect directly with the creators of Kiyomizu-yaki.
3. A fun festival for the whole family
Various food trucks and stalls will be present during the festival, and there will be seating areas to enjoy the food and take a break from shopping. In addition to shopping and dining, the festival will feature live demonstrations, workshops, and programs for children, ensuring a fun experience for everyone.
4. Watch the T1 Grand Prix Pottery Competition
The “T1 Grand Prix” will be held in front of the main building, where skilled artisans will showcase their mastery of pottery techniques, such as using the potter's wheel. It’s a unique chance to witness the craftsmanship up close. Last year, a student from a pottery school unexpectedly won the competition. Who will claim victory this year? Don’t miss it!
Event Information
The 48th Kiyomizu-yaki Village Festival
｜Dates: October 18th (Fri) – 20th (Sun), 2024
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (ends at 4:00 PM on the final day)
｜Location: Kiyomizu-yaki Village, Yamashina, Kyoto (Rain or shine, free admission)
｜Official Website: https://kiyomizuyaki.wixsite.com/fest
｜Organized by: Kiyomizu-yaki Village Festival Committee (to be established in May 2024)
｜Access:
Temporary direct bus service from Kyoto Station (Karasuma Central Exit, JR Bus stop 3) to the venue (paid service)
Shuttle bus service from Naginata Station on the Subway Tozai Line (free service)
Both buses will run only during the festival. Approximate travel time: 20 minutes.
【Activities】
○ Approximately 100 exhibitors, including pottery-related businesses supporting Kiyomizu-yaki.
○ Food corner with various vendors.
○ Demonstrations and workshops by exhibitors.
○ Pottery competition, "T1 Grand Prix," showcasing artisanal techniques.
【2023 Results】
Visitors: Around 42,000
Exhibitors: 90 pottery businesses, 25 food vendors