Are you a fan of Japanese pottery and traditional craftsmanship? The Ebetsu Pottery Fair (えべつやきもの市) in Hokkaido offers a unique chance to explore stunning ceramics by local artisans. Discover why this annual event is a must-visit for pottery enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Participating in the 35th Ebetsu Pottery Fair

If you’re a fan of pottery or Japanese craftsmanship, the 35th Ebetsu Pottery Fair  (第35回えべつやきもの市)was an event not to be missed. Held annually in Ebetsu, Hokkaido, this fair brings together hundreds of talented artists and pottery enthusiasts. We visited on Saturday, July 13th, and the experience was unforgettable. The venue was just a 10-minute walk from Takasago Station, conveniently located next to the city center. When we arrived around noon, the place was already buzzing with excitement. The streets were filled with people, all eager to explore the artistry that stretched out before us.

The fair featured over 250 booths of pottery, glass art, and metalwork, all created by skilled artists from across Hokkaido. Whether visitors were there to admire or purchase, the variety of work was stunning. We loved how every piece seemed to tell a story, embodying the essence of Hokkaido’s rich craftsmanship traditions. While wandering the fair, we noticed lively street performances, including an impressive juggling act. These performances, along with the local food stalls and kitchen cars, added an extra layer of enjoyment to the event.

Ebetsu itself was the perfect location for this celebration of pottery, as it has a historical connection to craftsmanship, particularly with its production of 赤レンガ (red bricks). This heritage made the fair feel even more meaningful. Seeing local families and tourists alike come to support the artisans was heartwarming. The fair had an atmosphere of community and creativity, and it was a beautiful way to experience Hokkaido’s culture.

Kobushi Kiln: Personal Highlights

Among all the incredible pottery on display, Kobushi Kiln (こぶ志窯) stood out to us. The kiln is well-known for its use of 海鼠釉 (sea slug glaze), which creates a stunning blue color that immediately caught our eye. As we explored the booth, we discovered that the artist behind these masterpieces is Chiaki Yamaoka (山岡千秋), the third-generation potter from the kiln, based in Iwamizawa.

What we loved most about Kobushi Kiln’s pieces was the unique texture and thickness of the glaze. Though the pottery is stoneware, it’s microwave-safe due to the durable nature of the glaze, making it not only beautiful but also practical. We were particularly drawn to the bowls and teapots, which had a certain weight and depth that made them feel timeless. Meeting Chiaki Yamaoka in person and hearing about her family’s long-standing pottery tradition was a special experience, and we couldn’t leave without one of their pieces as a cherished keepsake from the fair.

The End.

If you find yourself in Hokkaido during the summer, we highly recommend visiting the Ebetsu Pottery Fair. It was a delightful event filled with local culture, creativity, and community spirit. The fair offered not only beautiful pottery but also a chance to connect with the artists and learn more about Hokkaido’s rich pottery traditions. Between the amazing craftsmanship, lively performances, and delicious local food, this annual event is something truly special. We look forward to attending again next year, and we hope you’ll have the chance to experience it as well!

35th Ebetsu Pottery Fair (えべつやきもの市)
Temporary Venue North of Ebetsu City Hall (26 Mukogaoka, Ebetsu City, Hokkaido)​

Website
http://www.yakimono21.org/ichi/ 

Visit Date
13th July 2024