Arita
About This Destination
Arita has been the heart of Japanese porcelain production since Korean potter Yi Sam-pyeong discovered porcelain stone here in 1616. The town's Uchiyama district preserves rows of historic pottery workshops and kilns along a charming hillside street designated as a Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. The Kyushu Ceramic Museum houses an outstanding collection tracing the evolution of Arita ware from its origins to contemporary masterpieces, and admission is free. The annual Arita Ceramic Fair held during Golden Week in early May draws over one million visitors with hundreds of stalls offering pottery at bargain prices. Visitors can try their hand at pottery painting or wheel-throwing at several workshops throughout town.
Location
Prefecture: Saga
Address: Arita, Saga, Japan
Nearest Station: Arita Station
Best time to visit: Late April to early May for the Arita Ceramics Fair; the porcelain town is pleasant in spring and autumn
Visitor Information
Credit Cards: Unknown
Food Options: Town restaurants serve Arita-yaki pottery plate lunches and local Saga wagyu; the ceramic fair features many food stalls during Golden Week
Access
Saga, Japan
Get DirectionsFrequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Arita?
JR Sasebo Line trains stop at Arita Station, about 1.5 hours from Hakata (Fukuoka) by limited express.
What is Arita famous for?
Arita produced Japan's first porcelain, fired here in the early 1600s. Kilns like Kakiemon and Imaemon continue 400-year traditions, and the Tozan Shrine even has a porcelain torii gate.
When is the Arita Ceramic Fair?
During Golden Week (late April to early May), the town becomes a giant pottery market with hundreds of stalls and a million visitors hunting for bargains.
Nearby Destinations
🏙️ Other City in Saga
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