Excursion Arita porcelain town tour at Sasebo

Arita

Depart the pier for the approximate 50 -minute drive to the mountain town of Arita, renowned for its production of ceramics since the 17th century. Your foray into Japanese porcelain begins with a guided visit to either one of kilns that is located in Arita town renowned for creating contemporary ceramics that blend modern sensibility with traditional technique. (Kilns artisans and working space will be closed on Saturdays, Sundays and National Holidays) It also holds the largest ceramic fair in Western Japan and the event is held April 29-May 5 each year and has thousands of stores and stalling lining the six km long main street

Fukagawa Gallery.

This small gallery is home to a choice selection of locally-produced porcelain. Following your visit, take a brief guided walking tour of this quiet mountain town. The streets here are lined with white-walled houses dating from the 1930s, and the rear areas of these houses are decorated with tonbai fences made of used bricks and old -fashioned pottery.

The Fukagawa Family, which lit its first ceramic kiln in 1650, founded its own crafts company FUKAGAWA-SEIJI in 1894. The company was awarded the Grand Prize at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris, and in 1910. Making all materials, glazes and paints internally from their initial composition down to their finishing touches, this unique company has the largest expert workforce in all of Arita, with seven of the nation's most qualified traditional technical artists producing the world's greatest-quality porcelain.

Following your visit, commence the brief drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Porcelain Town Arita, Learn process to make porcelain at Kiln, Short Walking Tour of Arita

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking and standing for approximately 0.55 miles (about 900 meters) with about 30 steps at the visited sites and a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Observing the traditional artisans at work is not possible on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing. Japanese yen is required for any purchases: guests are advised to exchange money at the airport prior the cruise. Local Tour Guides tend to have a strong accent therefore we urge flexibility.