Dear blog readers,
Happy New Year! This is Masatoshi Yokoyama, the owner of KOTOPOTTER.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our customers and partner artisans for your incredible support throughout 2024. Your encouragement has been instrumental in our journey.
As we move forward, KOTOPOTTER is dedicated to showcasing the beauty and artistry of Kiyomizu ware to a broader audience. We look forward to your continued support in 2025.
Reflections on KOTOPOTTER’s First Five Months
Since its launch in August 2024, KOTOPOTTER has experienced five months of growth and learning. I’d like to take a moment to share our journey so far and our aspirations moving forward.
The Beginnings of KOTOPOTTER
Preparing for KOTOPOTTER began in April 2024. While I had years of experience working with Kiyomizu ware and traditional crafts, running an online store was uncharted territory for me.
I had to learn everything from scratch—handling a DSLR camera, building an e-commerce site, and more. Initially, I considered outsourcing the website development, but a friend, who’s a systems engineer, advised me to try it myself first.
Looking back, that decision was absolutely the right one. Even if I were to outsource, understanding the basics of site building and photography is essential for effective communication and showcasing the products’ charm.
Through trial and error, and with guidance from many, KOTOPOTTER has gradually improved. I’ve realized that an e-commerce site is never truly “finished”—it must evolve with trends and customer needs. I’m committed to continuous learning and improvement to create the best possible experience for our visitors.
Meeting New Artisans
Since launching KOTOPOTTER, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with many talented artisans. Some I met at pottery fairs, others through online platforms like Instagram. These interactions have enriched our product lineup, and we plan to introduce even more in the future.
While KOTOPOTTER focuses on handmade ceramics from Kyoto, it’s always bittersweet to discover exceptional artisans outside this region. However, there are still many incredible Kyoto-based artists to showcase, and we remain dedicated to bringing their work to light.
Our Aspirations
When I first started KOTOPOTTER, I was uncertain about how many people would purchase Kiyomizu ware without seeing it in person. I expected challenges and was prepared to face them.
Surprisingly, we received our first order just a few days after launching. While sales have fluctuated, the overall trend has been positive, exceeding my initial expectations.
Reflecting on this, I realized the trust and reputation that Kiyomizu ware has built over generations. It’s not just about my efforts but also the rich legacy of Kyoto’s traditional crafts.
Grateful for this foundation, I’m determined to make KOTOPOTTER a meaningful contributor to the world of Kiyomizu ware. Together, we’ll celebrate and elevate this timeless craft.
KOTOPOTTER is still in its early stages, and there’s much more to achieve. Thank you for being part of this journey, and I hope to continue sharing the beauty of Kiyomizu ware with you in 2025.
