Ohi Pottery Museum
Discover generations of exquisite Ohi family tea bowls in a traditional home setting, with a unique tea ceremony experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cozy and contemplative atmosphere
Ohi Pottery Museum
Best Time
Cozy and contemplative atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover generations of exquisite Ohi family tea bowls in a traditional home setting, with a unique tea ceremony experience.
"A stunning museum with items dated back to mid-17th century feudal Japan, a bucket list item for ceramic enthusiasts."
🍵 Matcha & Sweet Experience
Don't miss the chance to enjoy matcha in an authentic Ohi tea bowl. It's a delightful connection to local history!
📅 Book Private Tours
For a deeper dive, inquire about private tours. It offers an extraordinary look at the collection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ohi Family Tea Bowls
Exhibition Hall
Discover generations of exquisite tea bowls crafted by the Ohi family, a cornerstone of Japanese ceramics.
Traditional Tea Ceremony
Tea Room
Sip matcha from a handcrafted Ohi tea bowl, a truly immersive cultural and artistic experience.
History of Ohi Pottery
Main Exhibition
Explore the techniques and evolution of Ohi pottery, tracing its rich legacy through centuries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit in Advance
Embrace the Tea Ceremony
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍵 Matcha & Sweet Experience
Don't miss the chance to enjoy matcha in an authentic Ohi tea bowl. It's a delightful connection to local history!
📅 Book Private Tours
For a deeper dive, inquire about private tours. It offers an extraordinary look at the collection.
🏺 Choose Your Tea Bowl
The joy of the tea ceremony is selecting your own Ohi Chozaemon master's cup.
✨ Appreciate the Craftsmanship
Focus on the beauty and intricate forms of the pottery, some dating back to the 17th century.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍵 Matcha & Sweet Experience
Don't miss the chance to enjoy matcha in an authentic Ohi tea bowl. It's a delightful connection to local history!
📅 Book Private Tours
For a deeper dive, inquire about private tours. It offers an extraordinary look at the collection.
🏺 Choose Your Tea Bowl
The joy of the tea ceremony is selecting your own Ohi Chozaemon master's cup.
✨ Appreciate the Craftsmanship
Focus on the beauty and intricate forms of the pottery, some dating back to the 17th century.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ohi Pottery Museum for its extraordinary collection of Japanese ceramics, particularly the exquisite tea bowls crafted by the Ohi family. The unique opportunity to participate in a tea ceremony and drink from an authentic Ohi tea bowl is a highlight, offering a deep connection to local history and artistry. The staff's kindness further enhances the serene and beautiful museum experience.
"Private tour with the artist was possible for my group. Extraordinary collection of the forms of tea bowls from generations of the Ohi family. Beauty, beauty, beauty."
Jean Luce
"If you're a keen student and collector of Japanese ceramics, this should be one of your bucket list items. Stunning museum with some items dated back to mid 17th century of feudal Japan."
Steven Cohen
"A wonderful experience. We visited on a rainy spring afternoon and had a fantastic time. Having tea in one of these exquisite ancient tea bowls is remarkable"
Emmanuel Lk
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ohi Pottery Museum is located in Kanazawa, Japan. Visitors typically arrive via public transportation. From Kanazawa Station, you can take a local bus towards the museum. It's advisable to check local bus routes and schedules upon arrival for the most efficient journey.
Information regarding parking availability can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date details on parking facilities for visitors.
Yes, public transport is the recommended way to reach the Ohi Pottery Museum. Local buses are readily available from major transit hubs in Kanazawa.
Kanazawa is accessible by Shinkansen (bullet train) from major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, making it a convenient destination for domestic and international travelers.
The Ohi Pottery Museum is situated in an area with other cultural attractions. Exploring the surrounding neighborhoods can offer further insights into local art and history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum hours can change seasonally. It's essential to consult the official Ohi Pottery Museum website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
Admission fees are typically modest. For an additional fee, you can often enjoy a matcha tea experience. Check the museum's website for precise pricing details.
While walk-ins are often accommodated, booking in advance, especially for private tours or the tea ceremony, is highly recommended to secure your preferred time slot and ensure a personalized experience.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or groups is usually available on the museum's official website. It's worth checking for any applicable offers.
Museums may have different hours or be closed on public holidays. Always verify the museum's holiday schedule on their official website before planning your visit.
🎫 🏺 Onsite Experience
The museum is renowned for its extraordinary collection of tea bowls from generations of the Ohi family, showcasing the beauty and history of Japanese ceramics.
Visitors can enjoy matcha paired with a Japanese sweet, choosing to drink from an exquisite, handcrafted Ohi tea bowl. It's a highlight that connects you to local history and artistry.
A visit can range from an hour to a few hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and whether you partake in the tea ceremony. A rainy spring afternoon is often cited as a perfect time to visit.
The museum offers a quiet and contemplative experience. While children can appreciate the artistry, the focus is on a serene viewing experience. Consider the age and temperament of your children.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage within the museum or ask staff if photography is permitted, especially without flash, to protect the delicate exhibits.
🍽️ 🍵 Food & Dining
The museum primarily offers a traditional tea ceremony experience with matcha and Japanese sweets. There are no full-service dining facilities within the museum itself.
Kanazawa offers a variety of dining options. You can find restaurants and cafes in the vicinity of the museum or back in the city center, offering local Japanese cuisine.
Typically, a traditional Japanese sweet (wagashi) is served alongside the matcha, complementing the slightly bitter taste of the tea.
While traditional Japanese sweets are often vegetarian, it's always best to inquire about specific ingredients if you have dietary restrictions. Many restaurants in Kanazawa can accommodate various dietary needs.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside museums to preserve the exhibits. Please adhere to the museum's policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Look for signs indicating whether photos are permitted, and always refrain from using flash, as it can damage delicate artifacts.
The beauty of the Ohi pottery itself is the main photographic subject. The tea room during the ceremony, with its unique tea bowls, offers a particularly memorable photo opportunity.
It's best to confirm with the staff before the tea ceremony begins. Often, discreet photography is allowed, but it's crucial to be respectful of the experience and other guests.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around cultural sites and residential areas. Always check local regulations before operating a drone.
A camera with good low-light performance and macro capabilities would be ideal for capturing the intricate details and textures of the pottery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the storytelling aspect of the pottery's history and the Ohi family's legacy. The traditional setting of the museum might also appeal to children's sense of wonder. It's advisable to manage expectations for very young children, as the museum is designed for quiet appreciation. Inquire about any family-friendly tours or activities they might offer.
🏺 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
The museum's intimate setting and the possibility of private tours allow for a focused and in-depth exploration of the exhibits. The tea ceremony experience, where you can drink from an authentic Ohi tea bowl, is particularly significant, offering a tactile connection to the craftsmanship that collectors deeply value. This is a destination that promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of Japanese pottery.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Tranquility
The tea ceremony is a particularly rewarding solo activity, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment and savor the experience of drinking matcha from a unique Ohi tea bowl. The kindness of the staff also contributes to a welcoming and comfortable environment for those traveling alone. It’s an opportunity to connect with local culture and artistry at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Ohi Pottery
What makes Ohi pottery particularly special is its connection to the tea ceremony (chanoyu). The museum provides a unique opportunity to not only view these historical pieces but also to engage with them directly. By participating in the tea ceremony, guests can select a handcrafted Ohi tea bowl to drink their matcha from, creating a profound personal connection to the art and its cultural significance. This immersive experience allows for a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship and the ritualistic beauty of tea drinking.
Beyond the tea bowls, the museum also educates visitors on the techniques and philosophy behind Ohi pottery. The traditional wooden family home setting adds to the intimate atmosphere, making the visit feel like a personal journey through the Ohi family's artistic heritage. The staff's kindness further enhances the experience, making it a memorable cultural encounter.
Experiencing the Tea Ceremony
When you participate, you're invited to choose your own tea bowl from a selection of Ohi family creations. This is a pivotal part of the experience, as each bowl is unique, carrying the artistry and history of its maker. Holding and drinking from a piece crafted by an Ohi Chozaemon master offers a tangible connection to the local heritage and the dedication to the art form.
The ceremony typically includes matcha (powdered green tea), often served with a delicate Japanese sweet (wagashi) to balance the tea's flavor. The staff are known for their kindness and willingness to explain the nuances of the ceremony, ensuring a welcoming and informative experience for all. It’s a moment of quiet contemplation and appreciation for the beauty of simplicity and craftsmanship.
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