1. The Meaning and Historical Background of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki
Kyoto Ware (Kyo-yaki)
Kyo-yaki is a general term for ceramics produced throughout Kyoto.
It originated during the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the 16th century. At that time, Kyoto was the political and cultural center of Japan, and the tea ceremony flourished. One of the most famous potters was Chōjirō, whose Raku ware tea bowls became highly esteemed tea utensils. These simple yet elegant bowls remain iconic examples of Kyo-yaki today.
During the early Edo period, various types of pottery were produced across Kyoto City, including kilns making Omuro ware, Awataguchi ware, and others.
Kyo-yaki is characterized by its diversity of styles and techniques, reflecting each craftsman’s individuality rather than being limited to specific methods.
Notably, master potters such as Nonomura Ninsei and Ogata Kenzan created many works highly regarded as art.
- Chōjirō black Raku tea bowl inscribed "Old Tales," Azuchi-Momoyama period, 16th century
- Integrated Search System for the Collections of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/G-74?locale=ja
- Nonomura Ninsei teapot with moon and plum blossoms design, Edo period, 17th century
- Integrated Search System for the Collections of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/tnm/G-40?locale=ja
Kiyomizu Ware (Kiyomizu-yaki)
Kiyomizu-yaki refers specifically to pottery produced around Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, particularly the Gojozaka area.
Kiyomizu ware developed to serve visitors to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple, focusing mainly on tableware and tea bowls.
A large quantity of Kappo tableware and tea ceremony utensils were produced, meeting the demand for ceremonial ware.
Early Kiyomizu ware, known as "Kokimizu," is noted for its glazed crackle patterns and simple coloring. Later, with the start of porcelain production, Kiyomizu ware evolved into brighter colors and more elaborate designs.
Famous potters such as Kawai Kanjiro, Kondo Yuzo, and the esteemed Shimizu Rokubei family—who continue the tradition today—all operated studios in Gojozaka and are recognized masters of Kiyomizu ware.
- Old Shimizu colored tall cup with pine, bamboo, and plum blossom design
- Integrated Search System for the Collections of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
- https://colbase.nich.go.jp/collection_items/kyohaku/G%E7%94%B2439?locale=ja
2. The History of the Modern Classification of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki
During the Showa era, the Gojozaka area rapidly urbanized and developed as a tourist destination.
However, soot from climbing kilns and limited space affected pottery production.
To address this, in the 1960s, the "Kiyomizu-yaki Danchi" (industrial complex) was established in Yamashina Ward, across Mt. Otowa from Gojozaka (where Kiyomizu-dera Temple stands), and many kilns relocated there.
This complex not only improved production efficiency but also strengthened fire prevention.
As Kiyomizu ware developed through tourism and increased production, it became recognized as representative of Kyoto ware.
The widespread use of "Kiyomizu ware" as a term today likely reflects this rise in prominence during that period.
Meanwhile, Kyo-yaki, produced throughout Kyoto, continued alongside, necessitating clear distinction and simultaneous usage of both terms.
Thus, in modern times, "Kyoto ware" and "Kiyomizu ware" are written side by side as comprehensive terms encompassing Kyoto’s ceramics culture.
3. Summary
While Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki have distinct regional backgrounds and histories, both have become representative ceramics of Kyoto.
Kyo-yaki is a broad term for pottery made across Kyoto, whereas Kiyomizu-yaki originates from the area around Gojozaka and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
After evolving over time, the terms are now commonly used together as "Kyoto ware" and "Kiyomizu ware," symbolizing Kyoto's entire ceramics culture.
Image source: photo53.com
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
For over 10 years, I have been involved with traditional crafts and ceramics, including Kyoto ware and Kiyomizu ware.
I collaborate with Kyoto potters and ceramic artists to deepen my knowledge and aesthetic sensibility, exploring new ways to present traditional crafts.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER, an e-commerce site specializing in Kyoto ware and Kiyomizu ware.