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Kouraku Kiln
Discover the history and tradition of Arita ware through a modern lens - explore and enjoy it with a sense of treasure hunting.
Arita ware, the traditional craft of Arita in Saga Prefecture, has a history of roughly 400 years. Known for its translucent white porcelain and beautifully vibrant designs, it represents one of Japan’s most iconic ceramic traditions.
Among the many kilns producing Arita ware, Kouraku Kiln, founded 150 years ago, is a long-established large kiln that not only preserves tradition but also creates pieces updated with a modern sensibility-perfect for everyday use. The kiln offers unique hands-on experiences you can find only here, such as making your own original Arita ware and a popular activity called “Treasure Hunting.”
In the “Treasure Hunting” program, you pay a fixed fee (6,600 yen or 13,200 yen) and can fill a designated basket with as many pieces as you like from the warehouse within the time limit. You’re free to pick up each item, examine it closely, and enjoy the thrill of searching through countless pieces. It’s an experience collectors love, but even first-timers can easily enjoy.
You can take your time, follow your own sense of value, and choose the Arita ware pieces that truly speak to you.
Highlights
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While there are many kilns producing Arita ware, Kouraku Kiln, with 150 years of history, is a long-established large kiln that not only preserves tradition but also creates everyday pieces updated with a modern sensibility.
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A variety of activities are available for families to enjoy, including hands-on pottery making, Treasure Hunting, and archery crafting & shooting.
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In the popular Treasure Hunting experience, participants can pick up and examine each piece one by one as they search. It’s loved not only by Arita ware collectors but also by first-timers.
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Foreign-language support is available, with staff who speak English, French, and Korean.
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Factory tours (from 2,200 yen) are also offered-an experience unique to a kiln that handles all production processes, something rare even in Arita. On Saturdays, visitors can watch artisans at work in real time. Large parking areas are available, making it suitable for group visits.
Photos
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White porcelain decorated with vibrant colors - the hallmark beauty of Arita ware.
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Kouraku Kiln, where you can enjoy the popular “Treasure Hunting” experience.
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Pick up each piece in your hands and choose your favorite one at your own pace.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English, French and Korean are available.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, it is.
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Are tax refunds available?
Yes, available.
Q
Are there any smoking areas?
Yes.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 幸楽窯 徳永陶磁器株式会社
- Postal Code
- 844-0023
- Address
- 2512 Maruohei, Aritacho, Nishimatsuuragun, Saga
- Telephone
- 0955-42-4121
- Closed
- New Year’s holiday period.
- Business Hours
- 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Budget
- 〜13,200yen
- Access
- After taking a bus from JR Arita Station, get off at the “Maruo Jūtaku-mae” stop, which is about a five-minute ride.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)