Hello everyone reading this blog.
My name is Yokoyama, the owner of Koto Potter.
Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki: Elegant pottery that combines tradition and modernity
"Kyoto ware and Kiyomizu ware" are pottery representative of Kyoto that developed during the Edo period and have a long history as tea ceremony utensils. However, since modern times, their uses have expanded to include everyday tableware and interior decoration, and there are an increasing number of designs that are suitable for modern lifestyles.
The great appeal of this pottery is the individuality that comes from each piece being handmade, in addition to the delicate painting and glazing techniques used by artisans. It is gaining international acclaim as tableware that will add color to your dining table.
There are areas where many kilns are concentrated, such as the Sennyuji area and the Kiyomizu-yaki complex, but pottery studios are scattered all over Kyoto Prefecture, including deep in the mountains and in residential areas, where highly original ceramic works are produced.
☆Learn more about Kiyomizu ware
Closed: Thursdays
Opening hours: 10:00-18:00
Nishijin-ori: A weaving technique with a glorious history
- Thick board, blue and light green step hammer scale pattern
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/I-3217?locale=ja
Nishijin-ori is the pinnacle of Kyoto weaving techniques, originating in the Heian period and developing during the Muromachi period. It is known for weaving intricate and beautiful patterns using luxurious gold and silver threads. It is especially highly regarded for kimonos and obi belts, but in modern times it is also used as interior and fashion items.
Nishijin-ori is not only characterized by its gorgeous appearance, but also by the extremely high level of weaving technique. However, the number of craftsmen with this advanced technique is decreasing, and training successors has become a major issue. Nevertheless, the local community and craftsmen are working to preserve and develop traditional techniques, and progress is being made in passing them on to the next generation.
☆Learn more about Nishijin-ori
Opening hours: 10:00-16:00
Closed: Every Monday and New Year's holiday from 12/29 to 1/3
*If Monday is a public holiday, the museum will be closed the following Tuesday.
Kyoto lacquerware: A harmony of function and beauty with the luster of lacquer standing out
- Archives of Minoya, a long-established lacquerware store
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/kyohaku/H%E4%B9%9947?locale=ja
"Kyoto lacquerware" developed based on lacquer craft techniques that have been passed down since the Nara period, and was widely used in aristocratic culture during the Heian period. The appeal of Kyoto lacquerware lies in its beautiful luster of lacquer and intricate decoration such as maki-e.
Lacquerware is often used as special tableware for ceremonies such as tea utensils and weddings, but it is also used as everyday tableware. Lacquerware is also characterized by its durability, and can be used for a long time if properly cared for. For these reasons, Kyoto lacquerware is highly valued as a family heirloom to be handed down from generation to generation.
☆Learn more about Kyoto lacquerware
Business hours: 10:00 - 18:00
Closed: Tuesdays
Kyo-sensu: A delicate craft that brightens up Japan's summer
- Tale of Genji fan painting
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/A-52?locale=ja
"Kyoto fans" are traditional folding fans made from bamboo, washi paper, and silk, and began to be used in dance and tea ceremonies during the Edo period. They are commonly used as dancing fans and tea fans, but in modern times they are also often used as fashion items and gifts.
The appeal of Kyo-sensu is its light construction and beautiful patterns. Each fan is carefully crafted by artisans, and is valued not only for its practicality but also for its artistic merit. Not only does it make you feel cool in the Japanese summer, but its design has made it a popular product even today.
☆Learn more about Kyo-sensu
Business hours: 11:00-20:00
Kyoto Dolls: A Craft of Intricacy and Tradition
- Yusoku Hina dolls in formal attire
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/kyohaku/I%E7%94%B2846?locale=ja
"Kyoto dolls", especially famous as Hina dolls and May dolls, are crafts that represent Japan's doll culture. The greatest feature of Kyoto dolls is the detailed craftsmanship of their faces and clothing. These dolls are used in traditional Japanese events and festivals, and have long been passed down as symbols of prayers for the prosperity of families and the growth of children.
Modern Kyoto dolls maintain traditional designs, but also serve the purpose of interior decoration and decoration, and their beauty is highly valued both in Japan and overseas.
☆Learn more about Kyoto dolls
Business hours: 10:00-18:00
Kyo-Sashimono: Wooden furniture made with sophisticated techniques
- Omi Eight Views Makie Gyokuchi
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/kyohaku/H%E7%94%B293?locale=ja
"Kyoto joinery" refers to furniture and tools made with advanced techniques that join wood together without the use of nails or adhesives. Representative examples include tea ceremony utensils and chests of drawers, and are characterized by their precise construction and beautiful finish.
In particular, the tea boxes and furniture used in the tea ceremony are designed to perfectly fit Japanese spaces, and while they are functional, they also have value as works of art. In recent years, they have been incorporated into modern designs and Western-style interiors, and the fusion of tradition and modernity is progressing.
☆Learn more about Kyoto joinery
Opening days: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday (advance reservation required)
Business hours: 10:00-17:00Other traditional crafts of Kyoto
Kyo-yuzen: A dyeing technique characterized by vivid colors and intricate patterns, used for kimonos and obi. There are techniques such as hand-painted yuzen and kata-yuzen, and it has attracted attention both in Japan and overseas for its gorgeousness and high level of technique.
Kyohyogu: A decorative technique for decorating Japanese-style rooms, such as hanging scrolls, folding screens, and sliding doors. Made with washi paper and cloth, it is a traditional craft that is also indispensable for the preservation and exhibition of paintings and calligraphy.
Kyozogan: A craft technique for inlaying gold or silver onto a metal surface, used for making ornaments such as swords and obi fasteners. It requires particularly sophisticated techniques.
Kyosudare: A bamboo blind that keeps you cool in the summer. It is a practical and beautiful craft item.
Kyoishi Kogei: Crafts that create gravestones, garden stones, stone lanterns, etc. Many of the works incorporate the finest stonemasonry techniques that can be seen in shrines, temples, and gardens.
Kyo Kumihimo: Beautiful strings made using braiding techniques. They are used for obi fastenings and accessories, as well as for tea ceremony utensils and decorative items.
summary
Kyoto's traditional crafts have a long history, but continue to adapt to modern lifestyles. The masterful techniques and aesthetic sense of the artisans add color to our daily lives and are loved by many people across the ages. When you visit Kyoto, try to experience these traditional crafts for yourself and experience their profound charm.
