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Day Trip Bizen Pottery Tour in Imbe from Kyoto or Osaka

8 hours

Moderate

This tour offers a deeper cultural journey from Kyoto to Imbe, a lesser-known pottery town where Bizen ware is still part of everyday life. As you explore the area, you will experience a living craft culture shaped by history, nature, and continuous production. Bizen pottery is known for its unglazed technique, using only clay, fire, and natural ash. Traditional wood-firing lasts up to two weeks, with artisans working in shifts to manage flames in climbing kilns fueled by red pine.

Imbe is also the hometown of MLB MVP Yoshinobu Yamamoto (2025). Through conversations with locals, you may discover how closely he is connected to and loved by the community.

Optional pottery experience allows you to create your own piece using an electric wheel, with selected works fired in a traditional kiln and delivered months later—extending the memory of your journey beyond the day itself.
What's included?
    National Licensed English Speaking Guide
    Public Transportation fee
    Hotel Pickup
    Bullet train between Kyoto and Okayama
    Exclusions
    • Food & drinks
    Personal Expenses
    apx. 10-20 USD
    Please note
    • Stroller / pram accessible
    • Public transportation nearby
    • Infant seats available
    • Not wheelchair accessible
    • Not suitable for pets
    • Infants must not sit on laps
    • The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.
    • We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.
    • Please bring a hand towel, as you will wash your hands after the activity. (Workshop Experience )
    • Wear clothes that can get slightly dirty. Aprons are provided.(Workshop Experience )
    • Pants are recommended, as the electric wheel is used in a seated position with legs apart.(Workshop Experience )
    • Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.
    • The guide will be waiting for you at your hotel lobby with your name sign. Please inform about your pick up details in advance.
    What to bring