Shigaraki-yaki is pottery made in Shiga Prefecture. It dates back to the Tenpyo era, when roofing tiles were made for a castle in 742.

Although nowadays many people associate Shigaraki-yaki with Tanuki (Japanese raccoon dog) statues, it has a long history of producing tea ware, large jars and pots.

Shigaraki-yaki is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. Together with Bizen, Tamba, Echizen, Seto, and Tokoname, it is considered to be one of the most important historical Japanese pottery production areas.

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The Asemi Co. Shigaraki-yaki cups are made by the artisan Daiki Okuda.