This site is known as the “hidden village of kilns” for Imari ware. Historically, under the strict control of the Nabeshima clan, it safeguarded the secret techniques of Nabeshima-style porcelain. Today, it has been revitalized as a stylish tourist destination set against a beautiful mountain landscape. Porcelain wind chimes made in the village are a popular and charming souvenir.
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Japanese Official Site (No English Page):Ookawachiyama https://imari-ookawachiyama.com
Imari Ware
Imariyaki (also known as Nabeshima ware) was established in the early Edo period (1603–1867) as the official porcelain of the Nabeshima domain. To achieve the highest quality, the domain gathered its most skilled potters and painters in the secluded village of Okawachiyama, where they perfected techniques such as multi-colored Nabeshima porcelain. To protect these advanced methods from being copied, the domain strictly controlled access to the village, even erecting barriers at its entrance. As a result, Okawachiyama became known as the “Secret Kiln Village.” The exquisite porcelain produced here was primarily used as prestigious gifts for the shogunate and other feudal lords, cementing its reputation as one of Japan’s most refined and sought-after ceramics.