Tokoname, located on the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture, is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns (日本六古窯) and has been a major center of ceramic production for over 900 years. A Tokoname pottery experience lets you get hands-on with this rich tradition by creating your own ceramic piece in one of Japan’s most historically significant pottery towns.

Highlights:

• Create Your Own Tokoname Ware: Visitors can shape clay using a potter’s wheel or hand-building techniques. Common items include teacups, plates, bowls, or small figurines.

• Traditional Clay and Techniques: Tokoname ware is known for its reddish-brown clay (due to high iron content) and smooth texture, especially seen in its famous unglazed teapots (kyūsu).

• Friendly Guidance: Local artisans or instructors guide you step-by-step, making it suitable for beginners and children.

Cultural Significance:

• Tokoname-yaki is especially famous for its Japanese teapots, which are prized for their functionality and earthy beauty.

• The town’s long tunnel kilns and clay pipelines remain visible reminders of its industrial and artistic legacy.

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Why It’s Special:

A Tokoname pottery experience isn’t just an art workshop—it’s a deep connection with one of Japan’s oldest ceramic traditions. You get to feel the clay, learn the history, and create a truly personal souvenir that reflects Japanese craftsmanship.

Located in the historic pottery town of Tokoname, Maneki Neko Street is a charming and whimsical walking path dedicated to Japan’s famous beckoning cat figurines, known as maneki-neko. These lucky cats are believed to bring good fortune, wealth, and happiness, and Tokoname is one of the largest producers of them in Japan.

Main Attractions:

• Giant Maneki Neko Face (“Tokonyan”)

A massive cat face embedded into a wall at the entrance of the street—over 3 meters wide. It’s a popular photo spot and symbol of the area.

• 365 Maneki Neko Statues

A row of 365 unique cat statues, each representing one day of the year, with various expressions, colors, and designs. Visitors often search for the cat of their birthday.

• Pottery-Themed Surroundings

The street is decorated with ceramic tiles, miniature cats, and pottery artworks—creating a lively and artistic atmosphere.

• Shops & Cafés

Nearby, you’ll find ceramic shops selling handmade maneki-neko figures, as well as cozy cafés where you can enjoy drinks and desserts surrounded by cat-themed décor.

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Cultural Significance:

• Maneki-neko are a deep part of Japanese folk culture, and are commonly seen in restaurants, shops, and homes to attract customers and good luck.

• Tokoname has been making these figurines for over a century using traditional ceramic techniques. Many are still hand-shaped and painted today.