The soul of the samurai and the soil of the island

The profound beauty of Higo ivory ware, which originated from the decoration of military equipment, and the translucent Amakusa ceramics... Kumamoto is a place where strength and purity coexist.

Traditional Crafts

  • Ceramics

    Odai ware

    The clay is rich in iron and is then glazed with straw ash and fired to create pottery with a simple yet powerful texture.

  • Ceramics

    Amakusa Ceramics

    Made from high-quality Amakusa pottery stone, the transparent white porcelain is used to create celadon and white porcelain tableware.

  • Metalwork

    Higo elephant robe

    A chisel is used to carve grooves into the iron base, and gold and silver are hammered in. This profound beauty originated from the decoration of military equipment.

  • Traditional Crafts

    Yamaga Lantern

    These elaborate lanterns are made without using wood or nails, only with washi paper and glue. The golden lanterns are offered to shrines.