Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki: An explanation of their history and characteristics

Origins of Kyō-ware & Kiyomizu-ware

Chōjirō’s Black Raku Tea Bowl, “Mukashi Banshō” – Azuchi-Momoyama Period, 16th Century

The origins of Kyō-ware & Kiyomizu-ware trace back to the Azuchi-Momoyama period in the 16th century. At that time, Kyoto was the political and cultural center of Japan, and the tea ceremony was flourishing. Demand for tea utensils grew, drawing many potters to Kyoto.

One of the most renowned potters was Chōjirō, whose development of Raku ware became highly valued for tea ceremony implements. Raku ware’s simple yet elegant tea bowls remain a symbol of Kyō-ware today.

17th Century – Growth with Temple & Aristocratic Patronage

From the early 17th century, Kyoto potters began producing overglaze-painted ceramics and porcelain in addition to tea utensils. During this period, temples, shrines, and aristocratic families in Kyoto sponsored potters, supporting the creation of ceramics for tea gatherings and ceremonial events. This patronage provided financial stability, allowing artisans to refine their skills and develop unique decorative techniques.

Nonomura Ninsei’s Overglaze Plum and Moon Tea Caddy – Edo Period, 17th Century

Potter Nonomura Ninsei, who emerged in the late 17th century, significantly advanced Kyō-ware. He perfected overglaze-painted ceramics, adorning tea bowls and caddies with intricate designs. His creations were widely cherished by aristocrats and tea masters, helping Kyō-ware become recognized as one of Japan’s premier ceramic traditions.

Ogata Kenzan’s Rust-Glazed Grape Square Plate – Edo Period, 18th Century

Likewise, Ogata Kenzan incorporated Rimpa-style designs—derived from his brother Korin—into his ceramics, producing many unique art pieces. Kenzan’s creations, appreciated both as tea utensils and as decorative ceramics, further elevated the artistic prestige of Kyō-ware.

19th Century – Meiji Era Internationalization & Industrialization

9th Generation Obiyama Yohei’s Overglaze Gold-Embellished Floral & Bird Vase – Meiji 25 (1892)

At the end of the 19th century, during the Meiji period, Japan opened to international trade, and Kyō-ware & Kiyomizu-ware flourished as export ceramics. In particular, “Kyō Satsuma”—pottery featuring lavish overglaze decorations—was highly acclaimed overseas, attracting international attention at world expositions.

Industrialization in the Meiji era also introduced mass-production methods. While this allowed Kyoto pottery to reach a wider global audience, maintaining traditional craftsmanship and quality control became new challenges. Artisans strove to preserve their centuries-old techniques even as they adapted to modern manufacturing processes.

20th Century – Innovation from Mid-Shōwa to Present

In the mid-Shōwa period, the introduction of gas kilns and electric kilns revolutionized the production process of Kyō-ware & Kiyomizu-ware. Improved temperature control enhanced glaze color and firing consistency, leading to more complex and beautiful designs. Meanwhile, many artisans continued to preserve traditional wood-fired kiln techniques, expanding the diversity of Kyoto’s ceramic offerings.

Today, Kyoto potters blend tradition with innovation by using both gas and electric kilns. This combination has led to a resurgence of interest in Kyoto’s handmade pottery, drawing acclaim both in Japan and abroad.