"Tradition and Innovation: Redefining Craftsmanship in TOKINOHA"

In the Yamashina area, east of Kyoto, there is a place called Kiyomizu-yaki Danchi.

As the name suggests, it is a town of pottery, with many kilns, ceramic artists, and related businesses gathering here.

There are craftsmen who are bringing a breath of fresh air to this historic town.

Its name is TOKINOHA, and its simple yet modern design has captured the hearts of many people.

We visited an experiential store located within the Shimizu-yaki complex that combines a shop and workshop.

The store was filled with light and many pieces of pottery were on display, each sparkling in the brilliant light.

It was like entering a treasure chest. I was instantly captivated by the beautiful vessels.

What is the appeal of TOKINOHA tableware?

My interpretation is that the biggest appeal is that it leaves room for imagination.

I think the reason it has been accepted by so many people is because it allows for room for imagination, such as what to put on it and what occasion to use it in.

In the end, I think it's because of the gentle nature of the dish.

However, it is not inferior to the food that is served on top.

The amount of effort that went into creating such delicate tableware that perfectly harmonizes with the ingredients seems to be conveyed through the tableware itself, conveying that history.

During the interview, the company's president, Mr. Shimizu, spoke about the image of craftsmen of the future.

Shimizu's ideal is to create an environment where artisans can create while making the most of their individuality, while also ensuring a stable livelihood.

The main job of a craftsman is to make things that are commissioned. Their own creations inevitably become secondary. This is not a bad thing at all.

However, surely there should be room for creativity. Shimizu is fighting to strike this balance by redefining the word "artisan."

As Shimizu spoke, I was reminded of the phrase "tradition and innovation."

In this historic land, we confront tradition and explore the future of our craftsmen. We preserve what needs to be preserved and change what needs to be changed.

It goes without saying, but I think determining this boundary is the most difficult part.

Times and environments are constantly changing.

I believe that a common challenge in any field is to adapt to the changing times and create new value while preserving the important core elements.

These days, we feel that we too must read the waves and winds of the times and deliver the core of our work to you with the same passion as before.

Writer Kosuke Nakakubo


Collection of TOKINOHA