Kita no Arashiyama

"The collective term from the area at the foot of Arashiyama situated west of Asahikawa. The area's sprawling residential district is reminiscent of Karuizawa's holiday home belt. The area is also dotted with pottery studios, and accordingly it is known to locals as ""ceramics village."" It is rare for pottery studios to gather in one location, and it is said this area is the only such place in Hokkaido. The potters here are known for creating unique, distinctive pieces not bound by tradition; many allow visitors to view work in the studios and offer pottery making activities. Originally the area was known as ""Arashiyama Togei no Sato"" (""Arashiyama Ceramics Village""), but after an increasing number of glassware studios, dyeing studios, galleries, and cafes took root here, its name was changed to ""Kita no Arashiyama"" (""Arashiyama of the North"") due to its resemblance to the Arashiyama area in Kyoto."