A drive through the pottery village of Shigaraki in Shiga Prefecture and a visit to a large art museum in a forest

This drive plan squeezes in a lot. It takes you to the home of Shigaraki pottery, known in Japan for its tanuki figurines, and on to a huge art facility that combines nature and architecture. A visit to some local pottery galleries is just one of the many highlights of this stimulating day out.

NAVITIME

Update 2023.08.07

DAY1

2018-07-24
- Miho Museum
  
  10:00
- Shigaraki Tanuki Village
  
  12:30
- Utsuwa no Shigoto
  
  14:00
- Bungorogama
  
  15:00
- Gallery & Café ENSOU
  
  16:00

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DAY1

- Miho Museum
  
  10:00
  
  120min
  
  Art Museum
  
  The architectural beauty of this museum, designed by I.M. Pei, the designer of the Louvre Pyramid, has become one of its main attractions. The building is a feast of geometric shapes that, together with Shigaraki’s abundant nature, is a remarkable sight. Lunch at the adjoining restaurant, which serves organic vegetables, is highly recommended.
  
  Address
  
  Shiga Pref. Koukashi Shigarakichoutashiro Momotani 300
  
  10 Best Art Museums in Kansai Region
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  - Miho Museum
  - Miho Museum
  - Miho Museum
- Car
  
  12min
- Shigaraki Tanuki Village
  
  12:30
  
  60min
  
  This is an experience unique to pottery villages. Here you can take a quick pottery course, either with an electric potter’s wheel or by shaping your clay by hand. You can also make your own tanuki, or raccoon dog. You’re sure to become a skilled potter if you give it a go. The classes must be booked in advance.
  
  Address
  - Shigaraki Tanuki Village
- Car
  
  5min
- Utsuwa no Shigoto
  
  14:00
  
  30min
  
  Next, head to the gallery and store of potter Naoko Murakami, who specializes in the soft colors of a pottery technique known as “kohiki.” It is characterized by a rusty metallic texture and a somewhat unkempt style. As soon as you hold one of Murakami’s designs in your hand, you will understand its charm. Spend some time here choosing a piece you really like.
  
  Address
  - Utsuwa no Shigoto
- Car
  
  3min
- Bungorogama
  
  15:00
  
  30min
  
  This fifth-generation Shigaraki potter produces modern work that is neither Japanese nor Western in style. The pottery has an almost softness to it when touched that has proved very popular. If you’re looking to buy a piece, check out the gallery in one corner of the renovated warehouse where Bungorogama is based.
  
  Address
  - Bungorogama
- Car
  
  9min
- Gallery & Café ENSOU
  
  16:00
  
  60min
  
  End the day leisurely with coffee and dessert at this traditional house and kiln set in a forest. Most popular here are the seasonal fruit tarts, which, when served on Shigaraki ceramics brimming with their own personality, look like artworks themselves. People come from all over to visit this café.
  
  Address
  - Gallery & Café ENSOU
  - Gallery & Café ENSOU
  - Gallery & Café ENSOU
- FINISH
  
  17:00