Mino Ceramic Art Museum

The Mino Ceramic Art Museum stands in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, Japan, at the heart of one of the country's most important pottery-producing regions. The museum opened in 2002 to preserve and showcase the thousand-year heritage of Mino ware, which accounts for approximately half of Japan's total ceramic production. The facility was designed by architect Kenzo Tange, whose modernist vision created a striking hillside structure that integrates contemporary architecture with the natural landscape of the surrounding ceramic valley.

Mino ware encompasses several renowned pottery styles that developed during different historical periods, most notably Shino, Oribe, Ki-Seto, and Seto-Guro from the Momoyama period (1573-1615). These styles revolutionized Japanese tea ceremony ceramics and remain highly valued by collectors worldwide. The museum's permanent collection features both historical masterpieces and contemporary works, demonstrating the evolution of Mino ceramic techniques across centuries. The region's pottery traditions trace back to the 7th century, when Korean potters introduced advanced kiln technology to the area.

Visitors can explore exhibition galleries displaying antique and modern ceramics, view working pottery demonstrations, and visit the museum's traditional climbing kilns on the grounds. The facility includes hands-on workshops where guests can try pottery-making techniques under instructor guidance, though advance reservations are typically required. The museum shop offers a curated selection of Mino ware pieces created by local artisans, ranging from everyday tableware to art objects. The surrounding area features numerous pottery studios and galleries that welcome visitors interested in purchasing directly from craftspeople.

The museum is located approximately 2 kilometers from Tajimi Station on the JR Chuo Main Line, accessible by taxi in about 10 minutes or by local bus. From Nagoya, the journey takes roughly 40 minutes by express train. Visitors traveling by car will find parking facilities on-site. General admission costs ¥320 for adults, with reduced rates for students and seniors. Additional fees apply for special exhibitions and workshop participation. The museum closes on Mondays and during New Year holidays.