Yachimun no Sato

Yachimun no Sato is a traditional pottery village located in Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, established in 1984 to preserve and promote Okinawan ceramic arts. The site was created when several pottery workshops relocated from other areas of Okinawa to form a concentrated artisan community dedicated to continuing the 400-year-old tradition of Okinawan pottery making.

The village represents a significant cultural heritage site where traditional Okinawan pottery techniques, known as yachimun in the local dialect, are actively practiced and taught. This ceramic tradition originated in the 17th century when Korean potters were brought to Okinawa, blending Korean techniques with local materials and Ryukyu Kingdom aesthetics. The pottery is characterized by its distinctive cobalt blue glazes, natural earth tones, and practical designs that reflect Okinawan daily life and culture.

Visitors can explore nine active pottery studios where master craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques including wheel throwing, glazing, and firing in climbing kilns called noborigama. Many workshops offer hands-on pottery experiences lasting 1-2 hours, allowing visitors to create their own pieces under expert guidance. The village features a central gallery space displaying works from all resident potters, and most studios have attached shops where visitors can purchase authentic yachimun pieces directly from the artisans.

The pottery village operates year-round with workshops maintaining regular schedules, though individual studio hours may vary. The most favorable visiting conditions occur during October through March when temperatures are moderate and humidity levels are lower, creating optimal conditions for pottery demonstrations. The annual Yachimun Festival held in November features special exhibitions, demonstrations, and cultural performances.

Yachimun no Sato is located approximately 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport via Route 58. Public transportation requires taking bus routes 28 or 29 from Naha to Yomitan, followed by a 10-minute walk from the nearest bus stop. The village provides free parking for visitors. Admission to the village is free, though pottery workshop fees range from ¥2,000-4,000 per person. Most studios operate Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with many closing on Mondays.