Hagi Ware: The Pottery Beloved by Tea Masters That Develops with a Thousand Uses

Hagi Ware: Pottery Embodying the Spirit of Wabi Tea

Hagi ware, produced mainly in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is traditional pottery with approximately 400 years of history. Said to originate from the Lee family potters (brothers Ri Jakko and others) brought from Korea during the Keicho campaign (1597), they were protected and cultivated by the Mori domain.

What Are the Seven Transformations of Hagi?

The greatest characteristic of Hagi ware is the change called "Hagi's Seven Transformations." Because the pottery clay is coarse-grained, tea and other beverages seep into the vessel as it is used, gradually changing its color. The process of developing into one's own unique vessel through use has resonated with the spirit of wabi tea and been beloved by tea masters.

Characteristics of Hagi Ware

Hagi ware is characterized by thin, soft clay texture and light coloring tinged with white, yellow, and pink. "Kairagi" (a pattern like glaze crazing) born from glaze not covering uniformly is also a distinctly Hagi ware scenic quality.

Kiln Visits and Pottery Experiences

Numerous kilns in Hagi City allow viewing and purchasing. Some kilns offer pottery experiences including hand-building and painting. Courses visiting multiple kilns using Hagi City's pottery kiln map are also popular.

Access

Bus or bicycle is convenient from JR Higashi-Hagi Station to city kilns. A leisurely kiln tour while staying overnight in Hagi City is recommended.