Kyūshū Ceramic Museum

Top choice in Kyūshū


About 15 minutes on foot from Arita Station, this large, hilltop operation is the most comprehensive ceramics museum in the region. The Shibata Collection showcases the development and styles of Kyūshū's many ceramic arts, with excellent English signage. An entrance fee may be charged for some special exhibits.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kyūshū attractions

1. Kakiemon Kiln

0.76 MILES

This workshop of the Sakaida family (artist name: Kakiemon) is one of Arita's top sights. Now in its 15th generation and featured in its own exhibit at…

2. Kouraku Kiln

1.06 MILES

This fascinating pottery factory has something for everyone: you can try making simple pottery on the throwing wheel (your pieces can be fired and mailed…

3. Imaemon Gallery

1.09 MILES

It looks humble from the outside, but stunning works of art are on display in the gallery of one of Japan's Living National Treasures, the 14th generation…

4. Genemon Kiln

1.21 MILES

This is a unique opportunity to see contemporary potters working in a large studio crafting stunning examples of Arita ware, in a building from the early…

5. Ōkawachiyama

3.9 MILES

The area's renowned pottery kilns are concentrated in photogenic Ōkawachiyama, a 15-minute bus ride from the station. Around 30 workshops and public…

6. Imari City Ceramic Merchant's Museum

6.58 MILES

In Imari town near the river, this museum houses some priceless pieces of Koimari (as old Imari ware is known) from the 18th and 19th centuries. It's in…

7. Nakazato Tarōemon

18.98 MILES

Karatsu-yaki is defined by the work of 14 generations of the Nakazato family. Walk through the shop, which feels like a museum unto itself, and cross the…

8. Hikiyama Festival Float Exhibition Hall

19.48 MILES

This museum lets you get up close and personal with the 14 colourful hikiyama (floats) used in the annual Karatsu Kunchi Matsuri. Designated important…