Kasama Ware Kiln KOUZANGAMA

KOUZANGAMA is a kiln and pottery company based in Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture, an area known for Kasama ware. The kiln operates in a green, art village environment where many artists and craftspeople have their studios. From this base, KOUZANGAMA has been producing tableware with a focus on quality that fits naturally into everyday life, while also carrying on the traditions of Kasama ware.

One of the key themes of the kiln is to challenge the conventional image of Kasama ware as thick and heavy. To create thinner and lighter pieces that are still durable and easy to use, the potters have studied the characteristics of the clay in detail and refined every step from forming to firing. They also design and make their own molds in-house, optimising them for both shape and ease of production so that thin pieces can be produced with stable quality.

The “herkka keramiika” series was born from these efforts. It offers plates, bowls and cups that are surprisingly light in the hand yet have the warmth of pottery. The simple shapes and colours make the pieces easy to mix and match, whether you prefer a unified tone or a colourful combination. Many items in the series are microwave and dishwasher safe, making them practical for modern lifestyles.

In addition to herkka keramiika, KOUZANGAMA produces a classic line of Kasama ware, floral “Rinka” plates, heat-resistant dishes and custom-made items for professional use. The kiln also handles orders for restaurants, hotels and retailers, leveraging its position as a maker to respond flexibly to different requests. By combining traditional skills with new ideas, KOUZANGAMA aims to pass on Kasama ware to future generations and share it with customers inside and outside Japan.

A kiln-based online shop for Kasama ware

KOUZANGAMA has long been producing tableware as a Kasama ware kiln rooted in Kasama, a historic pottery area. The official online shop offers direct access to pieces made at the kiln, allowing customers to purchase plates, bowls and cups without having to travel to the studio or shop in person. It brings the atmosphere of Kasama ware and the craftsmanship of the kiln right into everyday life.

More than ten potters working in a studio in an art village

The main studio of KOUZANGAMA is located in a green art village area of Kasama, where many artists and craftspeople have their bases. More than ten potters, including young talents and certified traditional craftsmen, work at the kiln. Each potter maintains their own style while sharing a common philosophy of creating tableware that enhances everyday life, resulting in a rich and diverse lineup.

The lightweight “herkka keramiika” series

The “herkka keramiika” series, whose name comes from a Finnish phrase meaning “delicate ceramics,” is a signature line from KOUZANGAMA. It achieves about half the thickness and weight of conventional Kasama ware while maintaining the feel of pottery. The pieces are designed for daily use, with plates, bowls and cups that are simple in form, easy to coordinate on the table and suitable for both casual meals and gifts.