Looking for a unique day trip filled with art, culture, and charm? The Mashiko Pottery Fair is the perfect escape. Held twice a year in the quiet town of Mashiko, this event brings together hundreds of artists, delicious local food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Discover one-of-a-kind ceramics, meet the makers, and experience the heart of handmade Japan.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: What is the Mashiko Pottery Fair?
Mashiko Pottery Fair started in 1966 and marks its 111th edition this year. Organizers hold it twice a year—during Golden Week in spring and around November 3rd in autumn. Around 50 permanent shops and over 600 tents line the venue. Visitors can talk directly with artists and craftsmen and buy their works on the spot.
Event Dates: April 29 – May 6
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closing Time on Final Day (May 6): 4:00 PM
Chapter 2: What Kind of Shops Will You Find?
Mashiko ware refers to pottery made in and around Mashiko Town in Haga District, Tochigi Prefecture. The clay, temperature, wind, light, and other natural elements in Mashiko work together to create pottery with a unique character. This craft began in the late Edo period, and Hamada Shoji, who later became a Living National Treasure, helped spread its charm to a wider audience.
During the Mingei (folk craft) movement, people praised Mashiko ware as “beautiful everyday items for the people.” Many pieces are practical and easy to use in daily life.
For further information, please check below.
At the pottery market, you’ll find both traditional kilns and unique, creative works by individual artists. To make the most of your visit, check the list of shops and the Mashiko Pottery City Map beforehand. Each year, around 400,000 people from around the world visit, and the area gets very crowded. If there’s a particular shop you don’t want to miss or a specific artist you want to talk to, plan your route in advance.
List of Shops
Mashiko pottery city official website
Chapter 3: Besides Pottery?
While Mashiko is best known for its pottery, the town also has a strong and vibrant café culture. Surrounded by nature, the area produces fresh seasonal fruits like blueberries and strawberries.
During the pottery market, many local food vendors join the event. Start your day with a morning meal at Midnight Breakfast. Try baked donuts filled with fresh blueberries from “Blueberry to Satoyama to“, or enjoy a refreshing strawberry drink from Yoshimura Farm. Mashiko’s flavors are just as memorable as its pottery—don’t miss the chance to enjoy them.
List of Shops
Chapter 4: How to Access?
By Car
Drive from Tokyo to Mashiko in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Use the Tohoku Expressway and get off at the Sakuragawa-Chikusei IC or Moka IC, then follow local roads to Mashiko.
You can check the latest parking availability in real time.
By Train
- If using the Tohoku Shinkansen or Utsunomiya Line, get off at Utsunomiya Station. From the west exit bus stop, take the Mashiko-bound bus (Toya Bus), which takes about one hour to reach Mashiko.
- Alternatively, from Oyama Station on the Tohoku Shinkansen or Utsunomiya Line, transfer to the Mito Line and get off at Shimodate Station. Then, switch to the Moka Railway and get off at Mashiko Station.
By Bus
During the pottery market, direct buses run from various locations such as Tokyo, Yokohama, and Chiba. Please check the details on the official website. Advance reservations are required. Most pages are written in Japanese, please turn on your browser’s translation feature f needed.
For further information about Mashiko Town, please check the articles below!
