Traditional Craftsmanship in Kyoto's Higashiyama: The World of Shunzan Kiln
Located in the historic Sennyu-ji district of Higashiyama, Kyoto, Shunzan Kiln is one of the long-established workshops producing Kiyomizu-ware, a form of traditional Japanese pottery.
Third-generation ceramic artist Shunji Mori was born into this family of artisans. He began his career naturally as part of the family trade, completing his training at the Kyoto Ceramic Training School in 1977 and studying ceramics at the Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology the following year.
He went on to apprentice under the renowned master Yoshiji Miyashita and has since exhibited his work in prestigious art and craft exhibitions including the Nitten.
Elegant Floral Designs on Handmade Pottery
Shunzan Kiln’s pottery features hand-thrown and slab-built forms adorned with hand-painted floral motifs in iron glaze and overglaze enamel.
The rustic charm of the clay harmonizes beautifully with the vibrant colors of the flowers, creating ceramic pieces that reflect both the elegance of Kyoto and the warmth of handmade craftsmanship.
A Lively Studio with a Young Team
Unusually for a traditional Kyo-ware kiln, Shunzan Kiln operates as a collaborative studio with multiple artisans specializing in forming and painting ceramics.
Each artisan brings a high level of skill, and their dedication to the craft can be felt in every piece.
Many of the team members are in their 20s and 30s, working quietly and diligently in their own roles. The blend of radio music and the sounds of tools creates an atmosphere of focused creativity, where the refined techniques of traditional Kyoto pottery come to life.
Pottery That Complements Everyday Life
Every piece from Shunzan Kiln carries the hope that it brings joy—both to see and to use.
With their comfortable feel in hand and ease of use for daily dining, these ceramics embody thoughtful design and craftsmanship.
Shunji Mori continues to share the beauty of handmade, Kyoto-style pottery with a broader audience, valuing the warmth and tradition passed down through generations. Shunzan Kiln's creations are not only beautiful to use but also evoke the spirit of the studio with every use.
Learn More About Shunzan Kiln
Interview with Shunji Mori of Shunzan Kiln
A deep dive into the creative philosophy and artistry of third-generation potter Shunji Mori.
Read MoreArtist Profile｜Shunji Mori
- Born in Kyoto, 1957
- Graduated from Kyoto Ceramic Training School, 1977
- Completed ceramics course at Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology, 1978
- Exhibited in Kyo Exhibition, 1980 (selected annually since)
- Exhibited in Japan New Craft Exhibition (selected annually since)
- Selected for Japan Ceramic Exhibition and Nitten (8 times since 1981)
- Awarded 3rd Prize at All Kansai Exhibition (4 times since 1983)
- Received Kyoto Prefectural Governor’s Award, 1985
- Received Art Discussion Society Award at Kyo Exhibition (3 times since 1986)
- Received New Craft Award at Japan New Craft Exhibition, 1986
- Solo exhibitions at Gallery Maronie, Daimaru Kyoto, Isetan Shinjuku, etc.
- Selected for Contemporary Ceramics Exhibition, Yagi Kazuo Memorial Exhibition, and Mino International Ceramic Festival
Current Affiliations:
Member of Nikko-kai and Kyoto Crafts and Fine Arts Association
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over a decade of experience in Japanese pottery and traditional crafts, I collaborate closely with Kyoto-based artisans and kilns to explore new expressions of craftsmanship.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER, an online store dedicated to authentic handmade ceramics from Kyoto.