Hasami Town is a small municipality located in the Higashisonogi District of Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan, renowned primarily for its centuries-old ceramic tradition. The town sits in a valley surrounded by forested hills, positioned approximately 30 kilometers north of Nagasaki city. With a population of around 14,000 residents, Hasami has maintained its identity as one of Japan's principal pottery-producing regions for over 400 years.
The town's pottery heritage dates back to 1599, when Korean potters settled in the area and established kilns following Toyotomi Hideyoshi's invasions of Korea. Hasami-yaki, the local ceramic ware, became distinguished from neighboring Arita porcelain by its focus on practical, everyday items rather than decorative pieces. During the Edo period, Hasami produced approximately 80% of Japan's domestic tableware, with massive noborigama (climbing kilns) operating continuously to meet national demand. The pottery industry shaped every aspect of the town's development, from its settlement patterns to its economic structure.
Visitors to Hasami can explore numerous pottery workshops and galleries scattered throughout the town, many of which welcome guests to observe artisans at work using traditional techniques. The Hasami Ceramics Museum provides comprehensive exhibits on the historical evolution of local pottery styles, displaying pieces from different eras alongside explanations of firing methods and glaze compositions. Several studios offer hands-on experiences where visitors can try their hand at wheel-throwing or painting ceramic pieces.
The Hatanohara Ruins preserve remnants of historic climbing kilns that once operated on the hillsides, with some structures dating back to the early 17th century. Walking trails connect these archaeological sites, providing insight into the scale of historical production. The surrounding mountain terrain offers pleasant hiking opportunities, particularly during spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage periods.
Hasami is accessible by car from Nagasaki city in approximately 45 minutes via Route 205, or from Sasebo in about 40 minutes. Public transportation requires taking the JR Seaside Liner train to Kawatana Station, followed by a local bus ride of roughly 20 minutes to Hasami town center. Most pottery studios and the ceramics museum charge no admission fee, though workshop participation fees typically range from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 depending on the activity.
