The 330-Year-Old Center and Symbol of Okinawan Pottery
Known as yachimun in Okinawan, these plates, bowls, figurines, and much more, are functional, elegant and part of everyday life on these islands. Dig a little deeper, however, and you find that yachimun pottery also has an interesting story to tell about Okinawa. There is no better way to get a quick introduction to the history and charms of this Okinawan craft than to visit Naha’s Tsuboya Yachimun Street.
While only a short walk away from bustling Kokusai Street, the limestone-paved road running through the small district is just the first indication that you are entering one of the most charming parts of the city. During the Ryukyu Kingdom, Tsuboya district was the center of Okinawan pottery. This historical neighborhood with origins dating back to the 17th century, also goes by its alias “Yachimun Alley” and is pretty much pottery shops galore, showcasing the latest clay creations at every turn. Some workshops of the era have survived and can be seen today. The excellent Tsuboya Pottery Museum shows the techniques and illustrates the history of Tsuboya pottery. You should definitely visit this amazing place and learn the facts about Tsuboya pottery.
Pottery often expresses the daily life and culture of people living in the area of its production. Local clay, ceramic glaze, dyes, and other natural materials are used in pottery making. In Japan, there are various kinds of pottery made in different areas, and Okinawa’s Yachimun is one of them. It’s been affected by the culture and history of the tropical island.
While only a short walk away from bustling Kokusai Street, the limestone-paved road running through the small district is just the first indication that you are entering one of the most charming parts of the city. During the Ryukyu Kingdom, Tsuboya district was the center of Okinawan pottery. This historical neighborhood with origins dating back to the 17th century, also goes by its alias “Yachimun Alley” and is pretty much pottery shops galore, showcasing the latest clay creations at every turn. Some workshops of the era have survived and can be seen today. The excellent Tsuboya Pottery Museum shows the techniques and illustrates the history of Tsuboya pottery. You should definitely visit this amazing place and learn the facts about Tsuboya pottery.
Pottery often expresses the daily life and culture of people living in the area of its production. Local clay, ceramic glaze, dyes, and other natural materials are used in pottery making. In Japan, there are various kinds of pottery made in different areas, and Okinawa’s Yachimun is one of them. It’s been affected by the culture and history of the tropical island.
