The Refined Beauty of White Porcelain from Kyoto’s Higashiyama
Craftsmanship at Ganka Kiln
Nestled in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Ganka Kiln has upheld the traditional artistry of Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware since the early Meiji era.
In a quiet workshop, sixth-generation ceramic artist Ryuta Takagi devotes himself to the potter’s wheel, carefully shaping each handmade porcelain piece with exceptional skill.
Graceful Forms Born from the Artisan’s Touch
Ryuta Takagi specializes in wheel-throwing and shaping, while expert painters apply delicate blue-and-white underglaze or iron painting to each form.
Each ceramic work from Ganka Kiln is the result of close collaboration among skilled artisans. The vivid blue of the sometsuke and the earthy tones of the iron painting create a refined contrast against the transparent whiteness of the porcelain—distinctively elegant and unmistakably handmade in Japan.
Traditional Kyoto Pottery with a Contemporary Sensibility
While deeply rooted in traditional Kyoto ceramic techniques, Ganka Kiln's creations blend effortlessly with modern interiors and everyday dining. Their timeless beauty adds a subtle touch of refinement without overwhelming the space.
“Turkish Blue” Inspired by Ocean and Sky
One of Takagi’s signature expressions is a vivid shade known as “Turkish Blue.” This color was inspired by the breathtaking ocean and sky he encountered during his training in Okinawa. The serene, translucent blue brings calm and beauty to everyday moments.
A Firing Process Guided by Aesthetic Sensibility
The kiln firing process is handled with meticulous care—slight variations in temperature or timing can significantly affect the final outcome. Through expert adjustments, the artisans ensure each piece emerges with its pure white base and beautifully nuanced colors, a testament to Ganka Kiln’s dedication to both tradition and innovation in Japanese pottery.
Timeless Elegance for Everyday Living
Ganka Kiln ceramics are designed to bring gentle luxury to your everyday table. Crafted with care and precision, these handmade pieces from Kyoto offer quiet beauty and refined charm—pieces meant to be used, loved, and lived with.
Profile: Ryuta Takagi, Sixth-Generation Potter of Ganka Kiln
Born in Kyoto in 1998
2008: Completed training in shaping techniques at Kyoto Ceramic Technical Institute
2009: Completed advanced course at the same school
2010: Graduated from the Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology and Culture; apprenticed under Makoto Yamada of Yuntanzan-yaki in Okinawa
2013: Apprenticed under his father, the fifth-generation Ganka
2016: Inherited the title of sixth-generation Ganka following his father’s passing
Awards
2018: Prize at the 40th Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware Exhibition
2019: Prize at the 41st Exhibition
2021: Prize at the 43rd Exhibition
2022: Prize at the 44th Exhibition
2023: Prize at the 45th Exhibition
He continues to exhibit widely across Japan, especially in his home city of Kyoto.
Learn More About Ryuta Takagi of Ganka Kiln
Interview with Ryuta Takagi, Sixth-Generation Ganka
Ryuta Takagi continues the Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware legacy from Kyoto’s Higashiyama district. After training in Okinawa, he blends tradition and innovation in every ceramic piece he creates.
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Shop Owner – KOTOPOTTER
Masatoshi Yokoyama
With over 10 years of experience in Japanese traditional crafts and ceramics, I work closely with kilns and potters across Kyoto to curate authentic, handmade pottery rooted in heritage and artistry.
In 2024, I launched KOTOPOTTER, an online store specializing in Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware, sharing the beauty of Japanese ceramics with the world.