Aug. 19, 2020 UPDATE
Zuikougama Kyoto-Kiyomizu Studio
- 瑞光窯 -Traveler Friendly
Some staff can speak English and it is located close to famous sightseeing spots
Information
Japanese and English
Languages spoken
English
Story & Recommendation
Zuikogama Pottery Class
Located near the Yasaka Pagoda, “Zuikogama” offers pottery classes with professional potters who guide you through making your very own Kiyomizu Yaki (well-known Kyoto pottery).
Once you let the staff know what you would like to make, they will clearly explain the pottery making steps and lead you through them.
For example, they’ll teach you how to use your fingers and adjust pressure and the speed of the pottery wheel to mold the clay.
Also, there’s no need to worry about messing up, because your pottery gradually takes shape as you continue to practice.
One of the great parts of Zuikogama is that you can give them your name and address and they’ll send your pottery to you. It usually arrives in around a month to a month and a half and will come beautifully painted in your color of choice (shipping and handling fees apply).
I have no doubt that once you’ve taken part in Zuikogama’s pottery classes, you’ll have a new found appreciation for the beauty of Kiyomizu Yaki pottery and the traditional techniques used.
Zuikogama also sells Kiyomizu Yaki pottery as well.
1Highlight
Pottery Demonstration
Watch as professional potters demonstrate their skills while explaining the pottery process.
The potters will give their demonstration so that even first-timers can relax and enjoy the classes.
Being able to peer out the window and see and feel the different seasons in Kyoto while working on your own Kyoto pottery is such a wonderful experience.
2Highlight
The Different Shapes
First, all you need to do is think of what you want to make. It could be a mug, a teacup, or even a vase, the possibilities are practically endless.
If you can’t decide, you can always ask one of the friendly potters, or even take a look at what other people have made.
For the “Light Plan” there’s a size limit of 7 cm high and 8 cm wide. The other plans allow for sizes up to 15 cm tall and 15 cm wide.
3Good Experiences
Get Your Hands Dirty
Once the potters have given their demonstration, it’ll be your turn to get stuck in and start practicing for yourself.
The clay will change shape depending on how much pressure you use with your fingers. The cup-like shape in the photo above can be recreated by pinching the clay between your middle finger and thumb and slowly moving them upward.
4Good Experiences
Choose Your Favorite Color
After you’ve finished making your pottery, it’s time to pick a color. You can choose your favorite of the five colors available.
From top-left to bottom-right, there’s turquoise, bronze, pearl, lemon yellow, and candy red.
- Manner & Tips -
Bookings are not necessary; however, during the high-season, Zuikogama gets very busy, so it’s recommended to book in advance online.
Online Bookings: https://www.taiken-kiyomizu.com/en/
