Kumamoto Prefecture is a treasure trove of traditional crafts, each a blend of nature’s bounty, skilled craftsmanship, and the wisdom of local lifestyles. These crafts, deeply embedded in daily life, continue to be cherished in Kumamoto.

This article showcases some of these traditional crafts: Shodaiyaki from Arao City, Yamaga Lanterns from Yamaga City, Honoha-zaru from Gyokuto Town, and Amakusa Porcelain from the Hondo area of Amakusa City.

Shodaiyaki Pottery

Shodaiyaki, with a history of about 400 years, is known for its rustic and robust style, combining aesthetics with functionality.

Yamaga Toro (Paper Lanterns)

Yamaga Lanterns are intricate paper crafts made solely from washi paper and glue, creating hollow three-dimensional art. These lanterns have been part of a tradition dating back 600 years, often dedicated to shrines in festivals that commemorate a legend of welcoming the Emperor.

Konohazaru (Pottery Monkeys)

Originating from a mountain in the north of Kumamoto called “Konohayama” (木葉山), known for rain prayers, the legend speaks of a day in the 700s when sacred vessels were made from the mountain’s clay, and the remaining clay transformed into a monkey, symbolizing warding off evil and ensuring prosperity.

Amakusa Ceramics – Mizunodaira-Yaki

Utilizing the pottery stone found in Amakusa archipelago, the pottery made in this island region of Kumamoto is known for its unique glazing techniques, particularly the double-glazing of red and blue so-called namako (“sea cucumber”) glaze.

These crafts, born from the dialogue between makers and users, enrich various aspects of daily life with their beauty and practicality. Experience the warmth and ease of use of these vibrant crafts, born from the skills of modern artisans.

With about 90 different types of traditional crafts, Kumamoto’s rich history is evident in its traditional techniques and methods.

Visit the Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center near Kumamoto Castle for an array of exhibitions, events as well as opportunities to buy these crafts in person.

Kumamoto Prefectural Traditional Crafts Center (熊本県伝統工芸館)
Address: 3-35 Chibajo-machi, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture (熊本県熊本市中央区千葉城町３−３５) [Google Maps]
Phone: 096-324-4930
Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday), December 28th – January 4th
Website: http://kumamoto-kougeikan.jp/

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The above was translated and adapted from an article on our Japanese sister website ALT Kumamoto, titled “熊本に息づく匠の技、今回は伝統工芸の小代焼、山鹿灯籠、木葉猿、天草陶磁器 水の平焼をご紹介！” For the original content, visit https://akumamoto.jp/archives/176081.