Product Description

Transform your dining moments with the Mino Climbing Square Plate Winter. This unique piece, inspired by the spirit of climbers, offers a rugged yet playful aesthetic, turning every meal into a celebration of craftsmanship.

Artisan Craftsmanship Meets Modern Design

Handcrafted at Katsurayama Kiln in Toki City, Gifu Prefecture, this square plate captures the essence of Japanese pottery. Each plate, carved to resemble a cliff, reflects the artistry of Kazufumi Wada. The textured surface invites exploration, adding a touch of nature to your dining space. Measuring 7.9 x 7.9 x 0.6 inches (200 x 200 x 15 mm), it’s versatile for appetizers, desserts, or main courses, perfect for family dinners or solitary meals.

Functionality Meets Aesthetic Appeal

This plate not only enhances presentation but is also practical for daily use. Safe for microwaves (limited to reheating) and dishwashers, it stands up to everyday demands. Picture serving delightful steak or vibrant salads; the unique texture and design act as conversation starters while enriching your home decor.

Perfect for Gifting

Packaged in a sleek white gift box, the Mino Climbing Square Plate is a thoughtful choice for Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, or housewarming celebrations. Share artisanal craftsmanship with loved ones, letting them enjoy the charm of handmade Japanese pottery.

Product Information
  • Dimensions: Approx. 7.9 in x 7.9 in x 0.6 in / 200 mm x 200 mm x 15 mm
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Craft: Mino Wae
  • Made in Gifu Prefecture, Japan
Care instructions
  • Clean gently with mild soap and a soft sponge after each use.
  • Safe for reheating in the microwave, but avoid prolonged heating.
  • Dishwasher safe; place securely to prevent movement during the wash cycle.
  • Store in a dry place, ideally in the provided gift box, to protect from scratches.
  • Avoid exposure to extreme temperature changes to maintain integrity.
Artisan & Craft
Artisan & Craft

This plate is crafted in the tradition of Mino ware, a ceramic heritage from Gifu Prefecture that dates back more than 1,300 years and remains one of Japan’s most influential pottery traditions.

Created under the guidance of ceramic artist Kazufumi Wada of Keizan Kiln, the piece reflects a philosophy central to Japanese pottery: tableware should feel both beautiful and natural in everyday use. Wada, an award-winning member of the Mino ceramics community, is known for combining traditional techniques with expressive design and rich glaze work, ensuring that each piece carries the character and warmth of true handcrafted pottery.

Notes

The Mino Climbing Square Plate Winter is a stunning artisan-made piece, crafted with care and passion. Each plate showcases the unique artistry of its creator, meaning that you may notice subtle differences and delightful imperfections that add to its character. These charming variations are not flaws; rather, they reflect the individuality of each item, ensuring that your plate is truly one-of-a-kind. Embrace the beauty of craftsmanship with the Mino Climbing Square Plate Winter, where every detail tells a story.

Made by Kazufumi Wada in Toki City, Japan

Kazufumi Wada carries forward a legacy of over 90 years at Keizan Kiln, founded by his grandfather Keijiro Wada, with an unwavering commitment to the timeless art of Japanese ceramics. A true master of his craft, Wada creates each piece entirely by hand—eschewing molds in favor of intuition, tradition, and an acute sensitivity to clay, glaze, and flame. His work is defined by a pursuit of glaze richness, achieved through meticulous control of kiln temperature and firing time, resulting in surfaces that feel both organic and refined. A member of the Mino Ceramics Association, Wada has earned numerous accolades, including selections to prestigious exhibitions such as the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition, Chunichi International Ceramic Exhibition, and the International Ceramic and Porcelain Festival. In recognition of his artistry, he was awarded the 35th Takuo Award by the Mino Ceramic Art Association. Through his guidance and creations, Kazufumi Wada offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the living tradition of Japanese pottery.

FAQs

All you need to know about Japanese Pottery.

What types of traditional pottery are made in Japan?

Japan is home to several renowned pottery styles, including Mino ware (Gifu), Bizen ware (Okayama), Arita and Imari ware (Saga), Shigaraki ware (Shiga), and Mashiko ware (Tochigi). Each region has its own distinct materials, glazes, and firing techniques that reflect local history and aesthetics. Toki City in Gifu Prefecture is particularly renowned as the heart of Mino ware (Minoyaki)—the most widely produced pottery style in Japan.

What materials are used in artisan Japanese pottery?

Most artisan pottery in Japan is made from locally sourced clay, often mixed and refined by hand. Natural minerals and ash are used in glazes, and many pieces are wood-fired or fired in traditional climbing kilns (noborigama), producing unique surface textures and natural variations.

Are artisan Japanese pottery pieces safe for food use?

Yes. Authentic artisan pottery is made with food-safe, lead-free glazes and is carefully fired at high temperatures to ensure durability and safety. However, it's important to follow care instructions, especially for unglazed or porous ceramics.

What makes Japanese pottery different from Western ceramics?

Japanese pottery often emphasizes wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection—resulting in organic shapes, subtle asymmetry, and natural glazes. Unlike Western ceramics, which may prioritize uniformity, Japanese pieces often celebrate the individuality of each item, reflecting the artist's hand and the firing process.

How should I care for artisan-made Japanese pottery?

Hand-wash pottery with mild soap and avoid extreme temperature changes (like placing hot items into cold water). Some unglazed pieces may absorb moisture, so allow them to fully dry before storing. Avoid microwaves or dishwashers unless the piece is specifically labeled as safe for such use.

Do I need to season my matcha bowls before using them?

In most cases, seasoning a matcha bowl is not necessary—especially if the bowl is fully glazed, as the glaze naturally seals the surface and makes it ready for use. However, if the bowl is unglazed or has a raw clay base, a simple seasoning process called medome can help prevent cracking or staining. To season, soak the bowl in warm water mixed with a spoonful of cooked rice or flour for about 30–60 minutes, then rinse and let it dry completely. This step helps fill tiny pores in the ceramic and adds durability over time.