Tanegashima Kiln

A pottery studio located farther east along the road that runs between Kerihama Park and Mihama Park. This is where the pottery known as Tanegashima-yaki has been made for centuries. It is characterized by its plain texture and an orange color that comes from using local clay that contains high levels of iron. Tanegashima-yaki has been made continuously since the Meiji Period (1868-1912), but in recent years it has enjoyed a revival at the hands of Takashi Nakazato, a potter who is known for his Karatsu-yaki. At present, several potters use this kiln as a base for creating Tanegashima-yaki. The studio displays and sells cups, serving dishes, and other items and also accepts visitors who want to try making their own pottery.