Cultural Enrichment Activities - Students Explore Tajimi’s Pottery Heritage (Spring 2026)

On Sunday, May 24, students from NUCB Undergraduate School participated in a cultural excursion to Tajimi City in Gifu Prefecture, organized by the International Affairs Office. With clear skies and pleasant spring weather, the group spent the day exploring one of Japan’s most important ceramic-producing regions while experiencing its rich artistic traditions firsthand.

Known as the heart of Mino ware production, Tajimi has been closely connected to Japanese pottery for centuries. The city continues to attract visitors with its blend of traditional craftsmanship, historic streetscapes, and thriving community of ceramic artists.

Discovering the Charm of Tajimi

Students departed from NUCB’s Nisshin Campus in the morning and traveled to Tajimi, where they began the day exploring the city’s pottery district. Walking through the streets lined with ceramic galleries, workshops, and specialty stores, participants were able to gain a deeper appreciation for the role pottery continues to play in the local community.

With the warm weather creating ideal conditions for a leisurely stroll, students enjoyed browsing the various shops and exhibitions at their own pace. Around midday, participants took a break to enjoy the lunches they had brought with them, spending time relaxing outdoors and socializing with friends while taking in the atmosphere of the city.

Pottery Painting Experience at Kobei Kiln

The highlight of the afternoon was a visit to Kobei Kiln (幸兵衛窯), one of the region’s most historic and respected pottery workshops. Students participated in a pottery painting experience, decorating ceramic pieces that will later be glazed and fired by the kiln’s artisans.

Founded in 1804, Kobei Kiln has maintained a long history of ceramic production and continues to preserve techniques that have been passed down through generations. In addition to the workshop, students were able to explore the kiln’s museum spaces and view a collection of works that showcase the evolution of pottery in the region.

As the day came to a close, students returned to campus carrying not only memories of their time in Tajimi, but also the anticipation of receiving their finished ceramic pieces in the months ahead. The combination of spring weather, local culture, and hands-on creativity made for an enjoyable day outside the classroom and a chance to experience a different side of Japan.