About KOTOPOTTER

Hello,
My name is Masatoshi Yokoyama, founder of KOTOPOTTER.

Thank you very much for visiting our shop.

Here, I would like to share why I started KOTOPOTTER and how I think about Kyoto ceramics.
I hope this page helps you feel a little closer to the world of Kyoto pottery.

The Current Position of Kyoto Pottery

Kyoto pottery, known as Kyoto-ware and Kiyomizu-ware,
is well recognized within Kyoto itself.
However, its appeal and value have not yet been fully conveyed to audiences across Japan or overseas.

Despite its high level of craftsmanship and artistic expression—
including traditions related to tea culture, interior settings, and aesthetic appreciation—
there are still limited opportunities for these works to be continuously introduced and chosen.

I have been involved in the sale of Kyoto pottery for over ten years.
During that time, I encountered many pieces that were beautifully made and technically excellent,
yet gradually lost the context in which they could be used, seen, and properly valued.

The KOTOPOTTER Perspective

Preserving tradition and technique does not necessarily mean
that a piece will continue to be used and appreciated.

At KOTOPOTTER, we select works not only based on their history and background,
but also from perspectives such as tea practice, space, seasonality, and visual presence—
considering how each piece can be positioned within contemporary life.

Matcha bowls, incense burners, flower vases, and highly decorative works
are not meant to be stored away for special occasions.
We believe each piece can naturally take on a role
within a specific time, space, or atmosphere.

Choosing to Expand by Selling

KOTOPOTTER is a shop dedicated exclusively to Kyoto pottery.
By continuously introducing and selling these works,
we aim to gradually broaden their position and recognition.

An online shop is not simply a place for transactions.
Through being used, viewed, and chosen over time,
the value and perception of each piece can steadily accumulate.

What KOTOPOTTER Aims For

In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER as an independent venture.

Although it is a small shop,
I hope to carefully engage with each piece
and quietly connect makers, users, and viewers.

Delivering works that make people feel,
“this is even better than I expected,”
in a natural and unforced way.

Allowing Kyoto pottery to move beyond a local context
and become something that is naturally chosen
within different cultures and ways of living.

That is what KOTOPOTTER aims to be.