Part 3: Firing the Anagama in Tokoname: A Journey Through Japan’s Pottery Traditions

Preparing the Kiln for the Anagama firing in Tokoname

The past few days have been a whirlwind in the best way. I returned from magical Kyoto straight iinto preparing for the anagama firing of pottery I made Tokoname.

The days were filled with

• Stacking wood
• Glazing pots
• Scrubbing kiln shelves
• Painting posts
• Carefully loading the massive kiln chamber

Once loaded, we bricked up the door and as a group we faced the kiln. We clapped twice, bowed twice and poured a ceremonial cup of sake for the kiln gods, a tradition full of reverence and most importantly hope.

Anagama Kiln Firing in Tokoname

The firing began with two gas burners warming the chamber overnight. Then, the real dance with the flame began. For 36+ hours, we worked in rotating teams of three. We each took four hour shifts to stoke the kiln. It’s a physical and exhausting journey but extremely exhilarating and exciting. I volunteered for the overnight shift (no surprise there, I’ve always been a night owl.) There’s nothing quite like feeding the fire throughout the still of the night, watching and listening to it breathe and grow. 

Exploring Tokoname’s Pottery Trail

During my breaks, I wandered into the heart of Tokoname along its famed pottery trail. This town has long been a sacred hub for ceramics dating back to the Edo period when it was one of Japan’s six ancient kiln sites, producing everything from roof tiles to water jars. Today, it’s best known for its beautifully crafted redware teapots. The entire town feels steeped in clay. You see kilns old and new, quiet workshops tucked into alleyways, and pottery and ceramic sculpture (mostly cats) everywhere. 

Last night, we finished firing and sealed the kiln back up. Now the long wait begins as the kiln must cool for at least three days before we can crack it open and unload our pots. 

Waiting and Wandering

In the meantime, we’ve filled our days with inspiring field trips. Today, we visited the studio of a master potter who welcomed us with warmth and wisdom. We learned the traditional process of making the traditional Japanes teabowl and enjoyed a lovingly prepared Japanese meal in his studio. We then made our way out back to his tea hut where he lead an intimate tea ceremony for us all. 

The Japanese tea ceremony is far more than the act of serving tea. It’s a practice in mindfulness, grace, and hospitality. Every gesture from folding the cloth to the placement of the bowl in your hand is deliberate, slow, and rich with meaning. Being served tea in this setting, with a beautiful handmade bowl, was unforgettable. The space was designed for quiet reflection, making the experience even more meaningful.

After such an intense and beautiful anagama kiln firing in Tokoname, I can’t wait to see how the fire has marked each piece. More adventures await tomorrow as we count down to the kiln opening. Stay tuned…