Shigaraki has long been known for its pottery production and is among one of six ancient kiln sites in Japan. It is also internationally famous as a pottery town, in which many ceramists are active. Along the pottery walk with its cluster of kilns can be seen bucolic settings of old climbing kilns, smokestacks, and pottery workshops.
   This spring, young ceramists and potters have made this area into a place to exhibit their works, hold workshops, and open cafés. The galleries, restaurants, and shops around town are also warmly welcoming visitors to this unique art event, which takes advantage of Shigaraki’s rich resources such as open stores, workshops, and old climbing kilns. As a pre-event of the Shigaraki Ceramics Triennale, which is planned from October 1 to November 26, 2010, we introduce the artistic town of Shigaraki.