Cerabo Kutani is a new museum and hands-on workshop that opened over the summer in Komatsu City (Ishikawa prefecture), a location known as one of the few and first production centers of kutani-yaki porcelain. It’s here that, over 350 years ago, clay was first made by crushing rocks mined from the nearby Hanasaka mountains.
Designed by architect Kengu Kuma (previously), the building is covered by a multi-functioning roof that mimics landform and spreads across all sections. Inside, the depth of Kutani-yaki ceramics and the many stages of producing it are on full display.
There is a vintage machine that continues to crush rock and turn it into clay, which has been functioning for 60 years. Next to that is a gallery space where traditional and contemporary ceramics go on display in rotating exhibitions. There is also a workshop that can accommodate groups of up to 30 who want to experience wheel or hand-throwing.
Cerabo Kutani is located about 45-minutes south of Kanazawa, and should definitely be considered if you’re visiting the area.
Cerabo Kutani
A-91Wakasugimachi, Komatsu, Ishikawa 923-0832, Japan (Gmap)
Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
General Admission: 300 yen
Closed Wednesdays
