A Taste From the Master’s Cup
Traditional Japanese pottery and sake
Did you know that the aroma and taste of sake can be altered by the cup you drink it from? Join us to explore the craft of traditional Japanese ceramics and experience first-hand just how significant that difference can be.
Meeting Time
8:00a.m.
Meeting Place
Kochi New Port or your hotel in Kochi city
Details of Tour / Activity
Witness first-hand how raw clay is transformed at the Uchiharano Pottery Museum. Join master artisan Izuru Nishimura as he takes a formless lump of clay and deftly shapes it into a beautiful ceramic sake cup. As he works, Mr. Nishimura will share the storied history of ceramics in Kochi and how this ancient craft was perfected over generations.
Next, tour the studio grounds to see the evolution of the craft, from modern electric and gas kilns to the artisan-designed and built, multi-level wood-fired kiln known as noborigama. This impressive multi-chambered structure is a rare sight—it’s so large you can even climb inside!
After the studio, a short ride brings us to a stunning Arimitsu Brewery with more than120 history to sample local sake. Experience the nuanced flavors of both sweet and dry varieties, first in standard glassware and then in Mr. Nishimura’s handcrafted ceramic cups. You will notice the difference!
Details
Availability
This tour is available year round.
Required time
This half day tour will take about 4.5 hours from 8:00am to 12:30pm
Price
Price will vary based on the number of participants.
4 participants: ¥32,000 per person
5 participants: ¥27,000 per person
6-7 participants: ¥23,000 per person
8 participants: ¥20,0000 per person
Included
-Demonstration and tour of the pottery studio
-Sake tasting
-English interpreter
-Taxi on the itinerary
Important information
-This tour is available for English speaking guests.
-Payment may be made in advance through online payment or bank transfer.
-Please expect to book this tour two months in advance.
-This tour includes alcohol consumption; do not drive after drinking (drinking is not mandatory).
-The Uchiharano Pottery Museum currently only accepts cash payments.
-The Arimitsu Sake Brewery can accept cash or credit payments.
Cancellation Policy
-Up to 11 days before the trip: no charge
-10-8 days before: 20%
-7-2 days before: 40%
-Day of the trip: 50%
-After the trip has started/No-show: 100%