Tea and Pottery Pairing with "IGA Blue"— Discover Wabi-Sabi and the Ninja Spirit at a Traditional Kiln —

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Iga Area
Activity

Tea and Pottery Pairing with "IGA Blue"— Discover Wabi-Sabi and the Ninja Spirit at a Traditional Kiln —

60 minutes (Excluding shopping time)

While Iga is famous as the home of the Ninja, it is also a land where pottery and tea culture have flourished since ancient times.

n this experience, you will enjoy a harmonious pairing of Japanese tea and "IGA Blue"—a modern expression of traditional Iga-yaki pottery.

Iga-yaki is celebrated for the rugged texture of its clay and the natural patterns created by the intense flames of the kiln.

Iga was also the domain of the Ninja, who utilized tea as a form of wisdom to discipline and soothe both mind and body.

  • 01
    Gallery Tour & Introduction to Iga Ware
    At the gallery of Harumoe Kiln, you will be introduced to the unique characteristics and charm of Iga ware.
    This pottery is known for its rustic texture and the natural expression of clay, designed to complement modern lifestyles.
  • 02
    About Iga Tea & Ninja
    Iga is, in fact, a region known for producing high-quality tea.
    In this experience, you will taste locally grown sencha (green tea) and hojicha (roasted green tea).
    As a unique perspective from Iga, you will also hear fascinating stories about the unexpected relationship between ninja and tea, along with insights into ninja wisdom.
  • 03
    Japanese Tea Experience with Iga Ware
    Using a handle-less teapot (hōhin), you will enjoy two infusions of sencha brewed at different temperatures.
    The experience concludes with a fragrant cup of hojicha prepared in a traditional side-handled teapot.
  • 04
    Meet the Artist
    In the latter part of the experience, you will have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with ceramic artist Shinichi Kotsuji.
    He will share insights into his craft and his innovative approach to Iga ware, including his signature style known as “IGA Blue.”
    You will also have the rare chance to observe his pottery-making process on the wheel.

Shunbo-gama Kiln

小辻 真一 (Shinichi Kotsuji) — A master potter with 40 years of experience. He continues to pursue the perfect "blue" while embracing the raw, powerful texture of Iga’s natural clay.

小辻 ますみ (Masumi Kotsuji) — A former TV news anchor. Drawing on her 30-year career in broadcasting, she eloquently shares the stories and passion behind the kiln’s creations.
Price per person(2–6 guests)
From ¥18,000- (English Guide fee not included)
English Guide fee from ¥20,000/per group
  • Duration
    60 minutes (Excluding shopping time)
  • Location
    Within Iga City (Specific location details will be provided in your booking confirmation).
  • Meeting Point
    Within Iga City (Specific location details will be provided in your booking confirmation).
  • Language
    EnglishJapanese
Request to Book
*Availability is limited. Please contact us to check schedule
Informations

THINGS TO
KNOW

Guest Eligibility Ages 12 and above

Payment Method Advance payment required

Booking Deadline / Release Policy Reservations must be confirmed at least 14 days prior to arrival

Cancellation Policy

  • 10 days prior to arrival: 30% cancellation fee
  • 1 day prior to arrival: 50% cancellation fee
  • Same day cancellation / no-show: 100% cancellation fee

Additional Notes

  • Guests must be able to participate in a seated experience. (Up to 4 guests; stools are available upon request.)
  • Domestic shipping for souvenirs: complimentary shipping for purchases over JPY 12,000; a flat fee of JPY 800 applies for purchases below this amount (JPY 2,000 for Hokkaido and Okinawa).
  • International shipping is available via EMS; shipping and packaging fees apply.
  • Souvenirs are available for purchase on-site (cash and credit card accepted).

Included

  • Sencha tea
  • Hojicha tea
  • Local confectionery

Not Included / Optional

  • Guide fee
  • Transportation / private transfer fee

Gallery

Combine with

Premium Iga Beef Lunch

After the training, replenish
your energy with local Iga Beef.
Read More

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