When Korean potter Ri Sampei discovered kaolin clay at Izumiyama in Arita in 1616, he unknowingly triggered Japan's ceramic revolution. For the first time, Japan could produce true porcelain — white, translucent, hard — and the Nabeshima clan controlled the technology with obsessive secrecy. Arita ware (Aritayaki) became the first Asian ceramics exported to Europe, shipping through nearby Imari port (giving it the European name "Imari ware").
Styles of Arita Ware
Ko-Imari (Old Imari): The original export style — deep blue underglaze with red, gold, and green overglaze enamel decoration, often featuring flowers, birds, and geometric patterns. This is what European royalty collected in the 18th century. Kakiemon: Softer, more restrained style with asymmetric designs and more white space — the style most influential on European porcelain makers (Meissen's Japanese-inspired designs come from Kakiemon). Nabeshima: The highest refinement — ceramics made exclusively for the Nabeshima feudal lords, featuring extraordinary technical perfection and specific design vocabulary. Original Nabeshima pieces are national treasures; modern interpretations are highly collectible.
Shopping in Arita
The main shopping street (Garakuta-dori and surrounding area) runs through Arita's historic district. Fukagawa Seiji is the most prestigious manufacturer — their showroom displays the full range from everyday to exhibition-quality work. Jitsudai-ya and Kakiemon kiln offer direct-from-kiln purchases. The Arita Ceramic Fair (held late April–early May) transforms the town into the world's largest ceramics market, with dealers and factories selling at wholesale prices — hundreds of thousands of pieces at dramatically reduced prices.
What to Buy
For accessible purchases: tea cups (yunomi) in the ¥2,000–8,000 range demonstrate quality characteristic shapes and glazes without commitment. Sake cups (guinomi) at ¥1,500–4,000. Small plates for soy sauce dipping (kakizara) from ¥500. For serious collectors: the kiln showrooms carry pieces with certificates of authenticity and artist signatures. Shipping internationally is available from most larger shops.
Getting There
Arita is in Saga prefecture, accessible from Fukuoka/Hakata by JR Midori limited express (about 1 hour 15 minutes, ¥1,500). Day trips from Fukuoka are very feasible. Combine with nearby Imari town (historic export port) and Karatsu (its own distinctive castle and Karatsu ware tradition) for a full Saga ceramics day.
