Mashiko-town is a well-known pottery town, which is famous for mashiko-yaki. The style of the pottery is simple and has a country look. Mashiko is a small town in Tochigi prefecture. It is located 25 km from Utsunomiya-city and is close to Nikko. It is possible to visit Mashiko from Tokyo in one day. To get to Utsunomiya from Tokyo, take Tohoku Shinkansen (Bullet train) from Tokyo station or take the JR Tohoku line express train from Ueno station. It takes 45 min. by shinkansen and takes about 90 min. by express train. From Utsunomiya station, take the Toya bus to Mashiko. It takes about one hour from Utsunomiya. You can also take the Moka railway train to Mashiko from the JR Mito line at Shimodate station.
There are nearly 400 pottery studios and kilns in Mashiko. Many of the local kilns and stores offer ceramics classes. Try making your own pottery during the visit. (It might take months to get the finished products though)
Places to visit in Mashiko
1. Tsukamoto (0285-72-5151)8:30am - 5 pm (closed Thursdays)
This is one of the largest kilns in Mashiko. You can observe the pottery process and also can try making your own. (You must make a reservation in advance). There are shops and exhibitions in this large facility. Free Admission
2. Higeta Cottage and Shop (0285-72-3162)8:30am - 5pm (closed Sundays and national holidays)
Workshops explaining the traditional indigo dye technique (from the 17th century) are held at Higeta. Make reservations to observe the process. Indigo-dyed fabrics are displayed.
3. Mashiko Reference Collection Museum (0285-72-5300)Open 9am - 4:30pm (closed Mondays and February )
This museum exhibits the collection of arts by the potter Hamada Shoji, who introduced Mashiko-yaki. Admission: Adults 800 yen Child 400 yen
4. Mashiko Togei Mura (Ceramic Village) (0285-72-5955)Open 9:30am - 5:30pm (closed Fridays)
Mashiko-yaki ware and indigo-dyed products are displayed and sold. There are six small wooden buildings, an art gallery, and a tea salon. Free Admission
Enjoy this beautiful and traditional art form of Mashiko!
