Tamba-yaki Pottery Kiln Tour with English Guide

Hyogo Prefecture , Japan

Tamba-yaki Pottery Kiln Tour with English Guide

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About this experience

Discover the Living Tradition of Tamba Pottery!
Step beyond ordinary sightseeing and immerse yourself in Tamba-yaki pottery, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns with 800 years of history. Your English-speaking guide will share local stories.

At a pottery studio, you won’t just observe—you’ll be welcomed into the everyday world there. See how clay becomes beautiful art and enjoy meaningful encounters with the craftspeople who continue this proud tradition.

After the guided visit, you'll have 4 hours-free time to enjoy lunch with local ingredients, shop for pottery at the Kamamoto Yokocho, or wander the backstreets to discover hidden studios.

Why Choose This Tour?
-Immersive experience: Go behind the scenes of working kilns
-Cultural depth: Learn why Tamba-yaki became central to local life and heritage
-Enjoy encounters far from the crowds of Kyoto and Osaka

Who is This Tour For?
-Culture lovers seeking authentic Japanese traditions

Available options

Tamba-yaki Pottery Kiln Tour with English Guide

What's included

English speaking guide

Transportation to/from JR Aino station

Detailed itinerary

You will meet your guide at JR Aino station and learn about the history of this town, what makes Tamba-yaki pottery unique, and why it became the livelihood of the local community.

Then you will visit to an active potter’s studio, you can observe the workshop in action, discover the step-by-step process of creating pottery, and get a glimpse into the artisans’ personality and daily life.
*The pottery studios we visit may vary depending on availability at the time. Please note that the actual location may differ from the photos provided.

After the pottery studio visit, you’ll have about 4 hours of free time to explore Konda Town at your own pace. The area has many stylish restaurants and cafes that serve delicious dishes made with local ingredients, often presented on authentic Tamba-yaki tableware.

You can also enjoy a variety of experiences, such as visiting the Tamba Traditional Craft Park “Tachikui Sue-no-Sato,” where masterpieces from the Kamakura to Edo periods are on display, browsing through the charming Pottery Alley with around 50 local kilns and shops(Kamamoto Yokocho), or learning more at the Tamba Pottery General Information Center, Kamanjyo. Or simply strolling through the quaint backstreets to discover your favorite artisan studios.

Optional activities, such as hands-on pottery workshops or renting a bicycle to explore further, are also available. (Kamajyo offers rental bikes.)

Meet your English-speaking guide again at Kamanjyo for a comfortable transfer back to JR Aino Station.
*Meeting time at Kamanjyo: 3:00 PM
Train departure for Osaka: 3:30 PM

Meeting artisans who live in harmony with nature and preserve the centuries-old tradition of Tamba-yaki pottery is a truly special experience.
This unique blend of guided insight and free exploration offers an unforgettable cultural journey—an ideal escape from the bustle of the city.

What's not included

The guide will give you local information where to eat and what to do!

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The English speaking guide will be waiting for you at the gate

About Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its historic sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, Hyogo offers a diverse travel experience that includes the iconic Kobe beef, the scenic Koko no Highwood, and the historic Himeji Castle. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Kobe or the serene mountains of the Kinki region, Hyogo has something for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous castles. It is renowned for its elegant white exterior and well-preserved wooden structures.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥1,000

Kobe Beef

Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous culinary delights. Known for its tenderness, marbling, and rich flavor, it is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥5,000 to ¥20,000

Koko no Highwood

Koko no Highwood is a scenic area located in the Rokko Mountains. It offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kobe Beef

Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Main course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Okonomiyaki

A savory Japanese pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, often cooked on a griddle.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Sake

Traditional Japanese rice wine, with many local breweries in the Nada district.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rokko Mountains Mountain biking in the Kinki region Onsen (hot spring) bathing in Arima Onsen Strolling through Kobe Harborland Visiting Himeji Castle Exploring the Nada Sake District Ferry ride to Awaji Island Skiing and snowboarding in the Rokko Mountains

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn are major attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hyogo Prefecture is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Kobe Airport • 10 km from Kobe city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from Kobe city center

By train

Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station

By bus

Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, Kobe Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network in Hyogo Prefecture is efficient and covers most of the major cities and tourist attractions. The Shinkansen connects Kobe to other major cities in Japan.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sannomiya Nada

Day trips

Awaji Island

30 km from Kobe • Full day

Awaji Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and the famous Awaji Puppet Theater.

Arima Onsen

20 km from Kobe • Half day

Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring towns, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Kobe Luz Festival • Late January to early February Kobe Port Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Himeji Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the castle in the morning light.
Try different cooking methods for Kobe beef, such as steak, sukiyaki, and teppanyaki, to experience the full range of flavors.
Explore the Nada Sake District for a unique cultural experience, with sake tasting tours and traditional breweries.
Visit Koko no Highwood during sunset for the most breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe.
Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) for a unique and authentic experience, with tatami mats, onsen (hot spring) baths, and traditional Japanese cuisine.