Japanese Culture in New York - Chopsticks NY

The inseparable relationship between pottery and Japanese food

Japanese food is known not only for its fantastic flavors, but also for its visual excellence. What plays an important role in bringing out the brilliant colors of the food is the plate itself. Japanese ceramics come in all kinds of shapes, colors, and sizes--Some have simple designs while others have beautiful, intricate patterns. The food changes every season, so do the plates. This represents the unique aspect of the Japanese culture where beauty and aesthetics are pursued in the day-to-day life. This keen awareness of “aesthetics” in everyday eating has ultimately brought Japanese cuisine and ceramics to the level where it is considered “art”.

Kiyomizu-yaki and Shigaraki-yaki potteries

The Pottery and Food Tour features two major styles of Japanese pottery, the Kiyomizu-yaki, and the Shigaraki-yaki, which are distinctly different from each other. Kiyomizu-yaki came into existence in Japan’s former capital, Kyoto, which had been prosperous at the cultural center for over 1000 years. Known for its use of vivid colors and delicate patterns, the style is deeply related to Japanese cuisine. The various patterns, colors, shapes and sizes they come in symbolizing specific seasons, and in many ways, it is an encapsulation of the Japanese culture itself. On the other hand, the Shigaraki-yaki, whose origin can be found in serving-dishes for commoners, has warm, earthy characteristics. It uses a traditional kiln over wood fire and the flames have direct influence on the outcome of the work. The unpredictable fire’s work gives great charm to the Shigaraki-yaki.

Itinerary for Pottery and Food Tour

To allow participants to appreciate the depth of Kiyomizu-yaki and Shigaraki-yaki as well as enjoy Japanese foods, Cool Japan Project, Inc. organizes the best itinerary possible.

Day 1: Kyoto

Visit temples, Japanese gardens, and museums to examine the architecture designed to balance in its natural setting, and observe other traditional arts and crafts. At night, indulge in the exquisite Japanese cuisine in a “ryoutei” (traditional Japanese style).

Day 2: Kyoto

In the morning, visit Kiyomizu-yaki’s workshop, which is generally closed to the public. You will see the craftsmen working diligently at their stations. In the afternoon, a Japanese chef will give you a lecture on how to cook Japanese food and arrange the food on the plate provided. At the end of the lesson you’ll have a chance to eat the food you have just cooked with Kiyomizu-yaki.

Day 3: Kyoto to Shigaraki

Travel an hour and a half on the train to Shigaraki, one of the most famous places for pottery in Japan. Take a walk around towns in the mecca of Japanese pottery, surrounded by mountains and rice fields, while enjoying the fresh air. Visit the Shigaraki workshop, which is normally closed to the public. Guests will stay in a traditional Japanese inn where dinner will be served on Shigaraki-yaki plates, and bathe in a Shigaraki-yaki tub.

Day 4: Shigaraki to Kyoto

The last day is your Shopping Day! You will have some shopping time in both Shigaraki and Kyoto so you can bring back memories for yourself and gifts for loved ones from every part of your trip. From all the knowledge you’ve acquired from the trip, you will surely make wise purchase choices.

For those interested in Japanese food or pottery, Cool Japan Project, Inc. will arrange a customizable tour that fits your schedule and interest, and ceramic making sessions can also be arranged upon request.

A dainty and sleek sake with a bright and clean flavor. This medium dry sake has a slight melon scent and a sharp finish.