Pottery Footpath
Walking the Pottery Footpath (Yakimono Sanpomichi) is one of the best ways to learn about Tokoname’s heritage. There are two routes, both of which begin here at Tokoname Tojiki Kaikan (Ceramics Hall). Course A is 1.6 kilometers long and includes several of Tokoname’s most popular and scenic attractions. Course B is 4 kilometers long and outlines the city’s pottery history. Suggested walking times are around one hour for Course A and two-and-a-half hours for Course B, but visitors may wish to spend longer to experience the many attractions. Pick up a map and look for the signboards in English along the way.
The Pottery Footpath centers on the Sakaemachi district, where many well-preserved homes and kilns remain. The narrow, winding streets retain a traditional atmosphere and pass by historical sites. Residents have added to the area’s appeal by beautifying the streets and gardens with Tokoname ware, while new generations of artisans and entrepreneurs have transformed vacant buildings along the route into pottery studios, art galleries, and cafes.
The Pottery Footpath was launched in 1972 and has contributed to the preservation of the historical townscape and Tokoname’s emergence as a tourist destination. As you make your way along the footpath, please respect the privacy of residents, and take care during wet weather, as the route may be slippery.