Take a walk through one of Japans six ancient kilns and delve into the fascinating history of the Bizen Pottery village. With an expert pottery artist and local English guide, visit the local galleries and shrine before making your own pottery by hand and touring the master’s kiln.
Today's tour will begin at 09:00 or 13:00 at JR Imbe Station. Meet the guide and 18th generation pottery master Hideaki Kimura for a tour and hands on experience at Bizen Pottery Village.
(Mr. Kimura may not be available on certain dates due to other commitments. In such cases, guests will meet one of his apprentices who can provide their own unique perspective on the craft. Inquire with a Travel Consultant for more information.)
Step through the quaint streets of Bizen, where many galleries and small works of pottery can be found scattered throughout in the village. With fascinating insights and stories from Mr. Kimura along the way, learn about the deep history of the village and the different galleries and kilns.
Make a stop at the Amatsu Shrine and meet the priest for a short Shinto ceremony to wish for good pottery to be made for the year. There will be time to also speak with the priest and ask questions about his life and the importance of pottery to the local community.
After the walking tour, Mr. Kimura will give a tour of his pottery kiln and guide guests in making their own pottery by hand. The pottery made in today’s experience will be put in the kiln for firing and sent to guests’ home overseas once completed. After making the pottery, enjoy some more captivating conversation over matcha tea in a Bizen ware bowl.
Say goodbye to Mr. Kimura and the guide at the station and either explore Bizen independently or transfer back to Okayama or Kurashiki.
Notes:
- The tour will begin in time with the train arrivals to JR Imbe Station.
- For guests staying in Kurashiki, the tour start time will be from 13:00.
- The pottery made will be sent to guest’s home overseas and could take up to 2 months.
- Due to his work schedule, master potter Kimura may occasionally not be able to participate. In this case, an apprentice will join to provide their unique perspective on the craft. This may be a last minute change occurring with no warning.
- This tour is private only with a minimum of 2 participants and maximum of 9 participants.
- Tour may be cancelled in case of extreme weather.
- Please contact your Travel Consultant for availability. Please note that all of the services and tours have yet to be booked and that they are proposed for your reference only. We will start making reservations after we receive your confirmation.
- Please inform your Travel Consultant of any special dietary requirements and physical conditions that you may have. We strongly recommend the purchase of a travel insurance that also covers emergency medical evacuation.
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