# Arita

> Arita is the birthplace of Japanese porcelain with over 400 years of ceramic tradition, home to historic kilns, galleries, and the famous annual pottery fair.

- Prefecture: Saga
- Type: City
- Address: Arita, Saga, Japan
- Official site: https://www.arita.jp/

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.

## FAQ

### 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.

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Source: Arita — Japan Voyage