Pottery Created from Local Clay and Unique Techniques
Otani Yaki (Otani Ware) is a type of pottery produced in Oasa Town, Naruto City, Tokushima Prefecture. It is characterized by its unique texture, created using locally sourced clay and a traditional technique called “Nerokuro (a hand-spun potter’s wheel)”. A wide variety of products are made, ranging from large jars and Suirenbachi (water lily pots) in which Medaka fish swim, to teacups and plates. Here, we introduce the history and charm of Otani Yaki a craft that dates back to the Edo period.
The History of Otani Yaki
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The Spark Came from a Pottery Artisan from Oita Prefecture
The history of Otani Yaki dates back to the late Edo period, specifically to the 9th year of the An'ei era (1780). A pottery artisan from Oita Prefecture (formerly Bungo Province), named Bun'emon, who was traveling to visit the 88 sacred sites of Shikoku, demonstrated his wheel-throwing technique when he visited Yamada in Otani Village (now part of Oasa Town) with his family. The local village headman, Mori Zesuke, was deeply impressed by his skill and built a kiln to fire unglazed pottery. He used red clay from the Kanigaya area to make simple utility items, such as water jars, and this is said to be the origin of Otani Yaki.
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Large-Scale Pottery Praised as the Best in Japan
During the Meiji era, Otani Yaki pottery was used to produce aigame (indigo dye storage jars). Through various changes, including the wartime economy of the Taishō era, the tradition has been passed down. Notably, the large-sized pottery pieces, such as jars and water lily pots that are as tall as a person, as well as the climbing kilns used to fire them, have earned Otani Yaki the reputation of being the best in Japan.
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Otani Yaki Rooted in Modern Times
Today, Otani Yaki continues to thrive, producing a wide range of items from traditional large pottery to everyday household items such as teacups and rice bowls, and even expanding into the creation of artistic works. In 2003, Otani Yaki was designated as a traditional craft by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. In 2021, the trademark "Otani Yaki" was officially recognized by the Japan Patent Office as the 7th regional collective trademark of Tokushima Prefecture, solidifying Otani Yaki as a traditional industry that Tokushima is proud to share with Japan and the world.
The Charm and Features of Otani Yaki
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Large Pottery Created by the Nerokuro Technique
The most widely recognized Otani Yaki pottery in Tokushima are the incredibly large jars (Kame) and water lily pots (Suiren-bachi). When visiting Otani Yaki pottery studios, you can see many large jars lined up, filling the room with their presence. The creation of these large pieces is made possible by the unique technique called “Nerokuro”. This method involves two artisans: one lies on the ground and rotates a special potter’s wheel using their feet, while the other shapes the clay. While this technique may seem slow at first glance, it requires skilled coordination between the two artisans to maintain a steady rotation, as even the slightest misalignment can cause the shape to collapse. This technique demands high levels of precision and expertise.
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The Texture Created by Hagiwara Clay
Another distinctive feature of Otani Yaki is its unique texture, which comes from the use of Hagiwara clay, a local sedimentary clay rich in iron content. This clay gives the pottery a pleasant roughness and a soft sheen, offering a sense of comfort to those who use it. The clay naturally produces reddish-brown pottery due to its high iron content, but today, it is often processed with various paints and glazes, resulting in a wide variety of color tones. The rich texture and color variations make each piece feel unique and appealing.
Otani Yaki Pottery Industry Association
The six kilns take the lead in organizing events that showcase their works and promote interaction with the local community, fostering a strong connection with the region.
