Yes, approximately 10 active workshops sell pottery directly to visitors. Prices vary by artisan and piece. Bring cash as credit card acceptance is limited in this rural area.
Most workshops open Tuesday through Sunday and close on Mondays. Individual schedules vary, so confirm operating hours before visiting specific workshops.
Onta maintains 300-year-old production methods, including water-powered clay crushers driven by mountain streams and wood-fired kilns. The pottery features simple, functional designs with earthy glazes, embodying the mingei (folk craft) philosophy.
Plan one to two hours to walk through the village and visit the workshops. Allow two to three hours if you want extended time for purchases or conversations with artisans.
English proficiency is limited as Onta is a small, traditional village. Most interactions with artisans will be in Japanese. Basic courtesy and gestures are usually sufficient for browsing and purchasing.