HAGIYAKI
Originated and developed from techniques brought by Korean Peninsula potters.
As it is used over time, the glaze tone may change, making it more likely the phenomenon of the "Seven Disguises of Hagi Ware" will appear, captivating those with a refined taste.
Hagi ware is characterized by its rounded , soft, and luxurious texture, with the " Tsuchi Aji(earthiness)" of the clay being the key point of its appreciation. Hagi ware originated in 1604 when the warlord Terumoto Mori moved his headquarters to Hagi and established a kiln as the official kiln of the Hagi Domain. The establishment of the kiln was led by potters invited from the Korean Peninsula, whose expertise in Goryeo tea bowls contributed to the development of Hagi ware, with a focus on tea wares. During the Edo period, production capacity further increased, and by the Meiji and Taisho periods, not only tea ware but also everyday utensils and ornamental items began to be crafted. The clay used includes the primary original clay, Daido-tsuchi, and white clay, Mitake-tsuchi. The glaze applied includes Biwa-yu (loquat enamel), which enhances the texture of the base clay, and Shirahagi-yu (white hagi enamel), which imparts a thick, soft warmth. Renowned for being highly absorbent, Hagi ware changes in hues over years of use, developing a character all its wn. This transformation, known as the "Seven Disguises of Hagi ware", reflects the unique character of wabi-sabi and is cherished by those with a refined taste for beauty.
- Mystical Aobagi Blue Evoking Sky and Sea
- Hagi ware, traditionally recognized for its simple texture and the warmth of the clay, is most notably characterized by the representative hues of white and pale loquat. However, works that add new value to this tradition are represented by "Aohagi,” draped in elegant hues of light blue and deep blue. This innovation was brought to life by the father and daughter team, Susumu Notomi and Naoko Notomi at "Choungama." In the early days of its establishment, Notomi specialized in craftwork featuring floral and openwork patterns. However, an accidental "Yohen (scorched surface coloring)" - a change in color caused by firing and the condition of the base material - produced a captivating bluish hue. Enchanted by its beauty, Mr. Notomi embarked on a journey of trial and error, ultimately succeeding in refining the technique of creating a variety of blue shades. In addition, the works of Choungama are imbued with a distinct individuality, evident in both their forms and ornamentation. Each piece exudes a unique character through distinctive techniques: "Tokoku," which expresses the innate vitality and strength of the clay by intentionally leaving marks; "Yuragi,” which conveys the natural beauty of irregularity by deliberately disrupting the uniform rotation of the potter's wheel; and "Ryumon" which creates flowing, unique patterns that evoke depth and profound elegance.
Creator Introduction
Susumu Notomi Naoko Notomi
Susumu Notomi: Second-generation artisan, having been selected multiple times for exhibitions and craft shows. He has also collaborated with Japan's renowned designer, Hiroko Koshino, in a special exhibition. He has frequently showcased his work in solo exhibitions at galleries in Japan and abroad. He has crafted a diverse range of ceramics, from everyday tableware to bespoke pieces.
Naoko Notomi Representative of "Choungama." Committed to preserving and promoting Hagi ware, she has conducted outreach classes and workshops at schools and other educational institutions. She conceived the Tokoku series.
Awards History
- Susumu Notomi: Selected for “Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition” and “Western Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition” and other awards.
Choungama
- Address
- 4431 Yamada, Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture 758-0063
- TEL-FAX
- 0838-22-5822
- Business Hours
- 9:00 to 16:30 (excluding Sundays and public holidays)
Sales method
- Price:
Plate From JPY 3,000 (Size: Approximately 15 cm and above, Weight: Approximately 300 g and above)
Cup From JPY 3,000 (Size: Approximately 15 cm and above, Weight: Approximately 200 g and above) - Direct purchase available: (Payment: Cash, VISA, Mastercard, JCB, AMEX, Diners, Discover)
- Authorized Dealer: "Choungama" Gallery, "Keio Department Store Seiseki Sakuragaoka Store," "Hankyu Department Store Osaka Umeda Main Store," and "Takashimaya Omiya Store."
- Custom orders available:
(Personalization and engraving are available, negotiable depending on the quantity.) - International shipping available.
Estimated delivery times and costs. *As of January 2025
China, Korea, Taiwan 5 days or more, JPY 2,200 for up to 1 kg, JPY 4,400 for up to 3 kg
Oceania, Middle East and Europe 10 days or more, JPY 4,400 for up to 1 kg, JPY 8,800 for up to 3 kg
United States (excluding overseas territories such as Guam) 14 days or more, JPY 5,300 for up to 1 kg, JPY 10,300 for up to 3 kg
*Delivery times are estimates only and do not include customs clearance.
*Delivery time may vary and delays may occur due to shipping methods, customs clearance, and local handling conditions. - Bulk orders welcome.
(Approximately 100 units within 3 months for small items. *Availability varies depending on the product.) - Workshop Experience: Available
(Required time) 3-day course, 5-day course available (*10:00 to 17:00 each day)
(Fee) JPY 150,000/3-day course, JPY 200,000/5-day course
*Fee includes: Materials, facility use fee, pick-up service to Hagi City, and tea ceremony experience. (Shipping fee separately charged)
(Workshop details) Experiences include creating recycled clay, spiral wedging, potter's wheel throwing, trimming, handcrafting, teapot crafting, and tea ceremony. - Examples
Adapted by "Hagi no Yado, Tomoe" (Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture) and "Yakitori Nishimura" (Ube City, Yamaguchi Prefecture).
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