FAQ
FAQ - KOTOPOTTER & KIYOMIZU-ware
About KOTOPOTTER
1. Payment
Q. What payment methods are available for domestic orders?
• Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB)
• Cash on Delivery
• Shop Pay, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay
• KOMOJU (convenience store payment, bank transfer, Paidy, Rakuten Pay, PayPay, mobile QR code payment, auPAY)
• Cash on Delivery
• Shop Pay, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay
• KOMOJU (convenience store payment, bank transfer, Paidy, Rakuten Pay, PayPay, mobile QR code payment, auPAY)
Q. What payment methods are available for international orders?
• Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB)
• PayPal
• PayPal
Q. Is installment payment available?
KOTOPOTTER does not offer installment payments; however, some credit card companies may allow installment payment options after purchase.
2. Shipping
Q. What is the domestic shipping fee?
A flat rate of ¥950 applies nationwide. Free shipping is available for orders over ¥10,000.
Q. What is the international shipping fee?
International shipping fees are automatically calculated at checkout based on the weight of the purchased items and the destination.
Orders over USD 400 qualify for free shipping. Additionally, some products have free international shipping.
Orders over USD 400 qualify for free shipping. Additionally, some products have free international shipping.
Q. How long does it take to ship my order?
Orders are typically shipped within 1–3 business days after placement. Delivery times vary depending on the destination.
3. Returns & Exchanges
Q. What is your return/exchange policy for domestic orders?
Unused items can be returned within 14 days of receipt. KOTOPOTTER will cover the return shipping cost.
Q. What is your return/exchange policy for international orders?
Please contact us within 14 days of receiving your order.
For damages during shipping, incorrect or defective items, KOTOPOTTER will cover the return shipping cost, exchange shipping cost, and cancellation fees.
For returns or exchanges due to customer preference, the customer is responsible for shipping costs; the refund amount will be the purchase price minus shipping.
For damages during shipping, incorrect or defective items, KOTOPOTTER will cover the return shipping cost, exchange shipping cost, and cancellation fees.
For returns or exchanges due to customer preference, the customer is responsible for shipping costs; the refund amount will be the purchase price minus shipping.
4. Product Information
Q. Is there any difference between the product photos and the actual product?
Since the products are handmade, slight variations between items may occur.
Q. Do you offer gift wrapping?
Yes. We offer gift boxes and wrapping suitable for gifting.
Gift wrapping options can be selected on each product page. For more details, please see here.
Gift wrapping options can be selected on each product page. For more details, please see here.
5. Orders
Q. Are receipts/invoices included with my order?
Receipts and invoices are not normally included. If needed, please request them when placing your order.
6. Membership
Q. Can I purchase without registering an account?
Guest checkout is available; however, registering an account will make future purchases easier.
Q. How do I update my account information?
After logging in, you can update your information on the My Account page.
7. Cancellations & Changes
Q. Can I change my order?
Orders cannot be changed after they are completed; however, cancellations are possible before shipping. Please contact us for details.
About kiyomizu-ware
1. Basic Information
Q. What is the difference between Kyo-ware and kiyomizu-ware?
Although the terms are used interchangeably today, they have different historical origins. For more details, please see here.
Q. Where is kiyomizu-ware produced?
It is produced in various locations across Kyoto Prefecture, including the kiyomizu-ware industrial areas in Yamashina, Senyūji, and Sumiyama.
Q. What are the characteristics of kiyomizu-ware?
kiyomizu-ware reflects Kyoto's culture and is crafted with unique expressions by individual artisans. For more details, please see here.
2. Purchase & Use
Q. Can kiyomizu-ware be used in a microwave or dishwasher?
Some items are microwave/dishwasher safe; however, products with gilding or hand-painted designs are not recommended for such use. Detailed handling instructions are provided on the product page. For more details, please see here.
Q. What is the lifespan of kiyomizu-ware?
With proper care, this durable ceramic can be passed down through generations.
3. Design and Varieties of kiyomizu-ware
Q. What types of vessels are available in kiyomizu-ware?
There is a wide range of varieties, from vibrantly colored, beautifully crafted vessels to those with a more understated, earthy appeal favored by ceramic enthusiasts.
Q. What do the patterns and motifs in kiyomizu-ware signify?
Many patterns are traditional designs passed down through the ages. For example, the shippō pattern symbolizes prosperity and pine represents vitality. Consider the meaning behind each design when making your selection.
4. Care and Handling of kiyomizu-ware
Q. What are the care instructions for decorated kiyomizu-ware?
For items with hand-painted designs, gilding, or colored glazes, avoid using a microwave or dishwasher. Hand wash gently to preserve their beauty. For more details, please refer to the handling instructions on the product page.
Q. How should kiyomizu-ware be stored?
After use, ensure the pieces are thoroughly dried before storage. Any remaining moisture may lead to mold or unpleasant odors.
Q. Can broken kiyomizu-ware be repaired?
Traditional repair methods such as kintsugi may allow continued use, but the original appearance cannot be fully restored.