Local Special Goods

The Iga region produces a type of pottery called Iga-ware.
Blessed with high quality clay soil and abundant firewood, the people in Iga have produced pottery since earlier times.

In the early 17th century, Iga-ware was used for the cha no yu (tea ceremony). They are called “ko-Iga (early Iga-ware)”, typical items of which are vases and jars.

Ko-Iga represents the “wabi-sabi“, aesthetics unique to Japan that emphasize quiet simplicity.
It pursues beauty not in a refined shape, but rather in a distorted one.
The wabi-sabi aesthetic can be seen in the green-tinted glass flowing down the surface, converted from ash when heated at a high temperature, the scorches made by flames and the crack-like patterns.

In the mid-18th century, daily-use tableware such as bowls began to be made. Today, earthen pots are among the most popular Iga-ware products.

Iga-ware, with its unrefined and simple style, has been designated as a National Traditional Craft.

Marubashira, home of Iga-ware / Iga-yaki (Iga-ware) Dento Sangyo Kaikan

Marubashira, Iga City is known as the home of Iga-ware, dotted with many potteries. At the Iga-yaki Dento Sangyo Kaikan located in Marubashira, Iga-ware is sold as well as put on display. You can also make pottery yourself (reservation required).

169-2 Marubashira, Iga City, Mie Prefecture

Iga-yaki Shinko Kyodo Kumiai: Website 　    *only in Japanese