Experience the beauty and tradition of ceramics at Banko no Sato Hall
Visitors to Banko no Sato Hall in Yokkaichi will have a chance to appreciate traditional Banko ware. This distinctive clay pottery has been crafted in Mie Prefecture for over 300 years and the tradition lives on in the showroom and hands-on experiences at Banko no Sato Hall. Browse the extensive display of Banko ware in various shapes, styles and colors. There are examples of expertly crafted tableware, vases, teapots and more. For guests looking for an interactive experience, there are pottery workshops for all ages and skill levels where you can make your own unique pottery as a keepsake from your visit.
Caption: It was great to see all of the final products.
Once the students finished molding and shaping their pottery, it was time to fire them in the kiln. This was a chance for everyone to take a short rest and feel pride in their hard work and creative efforts. Everyone had been welcoming and friendly during my visit and the children had really seemed to enjoy having a foreigner watch them work. I learned that after the pieces are created, it takes 1-2 months for the firing process to be completed. People who participate in the experience can then have their fired pottery sent to them if they pay a shipping fee.
Caption: It was a wonderful and inspiring visit to Banko no Sato Hall.
Banko no Sato Hall is the kind of place that brings communities together. It connects the cultural past of Yokkaichi with the present by allowing visitors of all ages to appreciate traditional Banko ware and then make their own memories. I definitely came away from my visit with a deeper appreciation for clay pottery and I know the students I met felt the same way. It is always amazing to see the past and the future being connected by a creative hands-on experience.