Timeless Art Woven from Nature and Tradition
Located near the historic Kansyuji Temple in Kyoto, Dainichi Kiln is home to father-and-son ceramic artists Shigeo and Yotaro Takemura. Together, they craft handmade pottery that honors Japanese tradition while exploring new frontiers of expression.
Unique Expressions Fired by Nature
Shigeo Takemura is known for his use of original glazes and pigments made from the ash of natural plants. Drawing from his childhood growing up on a vineyard, he first used grapevine ash in his glazes—a technique that gives his pottery a deep, organic color and texture found nowhere else.
Since then, he has continued to experiment with ashes from various plants, channeling the strength and spirit of nature into his traditional ceramic works. Each piece reflects his deep reverence for the natural world.
Modern Sensibility Through Geometry and Color
Yotaro Takemura, Shigeo’s son, brings a contemporary edge to the Dainichi Kiln. He uses airbrush and masking techniques to create bold gradients and geometric designs that feel like modern art but remain grounded in functional pottery.
His works are striking, yet their vivid forms and colors maintain harmony with daily life—adding vibrancy to modern interiors without overwhelming them.
A Quiet Dialogue Between Generations
Though their styles are distinct, father and son work side-by-side in a quiet, ongoing dialogue. Shigeo explores the power of natural materials, while Yotaro creates new visual languages through color and form. Their mutual influence gives rise to ceramic pieces where past and future coexist.
Together, they are infusing Japan’s handmade pottery tradition with fresh perspectives and renewed energy.
Every Use Deepens the Beauty
Dainichi Kiln’s ceramics are pieces that grow more personal with each use. Their quiet presence enriches everyday life, adding a subtle warmth to any setting.
Though never flashy, their strong character makes them unforgettable—a true lifelong companion at the table, and a treasured piece of handmade Kyoto artistry.
Shigeo Takemura – Artist Profile
- Born in 1953 in Yamashina, Kyoto
- Graduated from Hiyoshigaoka High School, Ceramics Program
- Studied under master Morinobu Kimura
- 1975: First selection for Kinki Branch of Japan Kogei Association (selected annually since)
- 1980: Established Dainichi Kiln in Yamashina, Kyoto
- 1988: Selected for the 35th Japan Traditional Kogei Exhibition
- 1996: Won Encouragement Prize at 25th Kinki Traditional Craft Exhibition
- Solo exhibitions at Takashimaya in Osaka, Kyoto, Okayama, and Yokohama
- 2007: Received Kyoto Board of Education Award at Kinki Exhibition
- 2008: Received Japan Kogei Association Prize at the 36th Shin-Saku Ceramic Exhibition
- 2010: Appointed as judge for the Kinki Traditional Craft Exhibition
Yotaro Takemura – Artist Profile
- Born in 1981 in Yamashina, Kyoto
- 2009: Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural Technical College for Ceramics
- 2010: Completed Ceramic Research Program at Kyoto Municipal Institute
- 2010: Joined his father at Dainichi Kiln
- 2011–2016: Selected for multiple Kinki Traditional Craft Exhibitions
- 2011: Won Encouragement Award at National Cultural Festival Art Exhibition
- 2012: Selected for Kyoto Art & Craft Biennale
- 2013: Held solo exhibition at Takashimaya Kyoto
KOTOPOTTER Owner
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over a decade of experience in Kyo ware, Kiyomizu ware, and other traditional Japanese ceramics, I work alongside Kyoto artisans to share their craft with the world.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER—an online shop dedicated to bringing authentic handmade Kyoto pottery to global audiences.