Background

Tempo Kiln: Echoes of Bizen Pottery

Explore the legacy of Bizen ware at Tempo Kiln, a historical landmark in Okayama's renowned pottery district.

3.6

Tempo Kiln stands as a testament to Bizen's rich pottery heritage. Located in Inbe, Bizen, Okayama, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into the traditional craftsmanship that has shaped the region's identity for centuries. While the kiln itself may be silent, its legacy resonates through the Bizen pottery that continues to be produced in the surrounding workshops.

A brief summary to Tempo Kiln

  • Inbe, Bizen, Inbe, Okayama, 705-0001, JP

Local tips

  • Visit during the Bizen Pottery Festival, held annually on the third weekend of October, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase pottery at discounted prices.
  • Explore the numerous pottery workshops and galleries in the Imbe district to witness the artistry and craftsmanship of contemporary Bizen ware potters.
  • Take a stroll around the historic townscape of Imbe, characterized by its brick chimneys and traditional buildings, to immerse yourself in the ambiance of a pottery village.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Train

    The most convenient way to reach Tempo Kiln is by taking the JR Ako Line from Okayama Station to Imbe Station. The journey takes approximately 40-60 minutes, with trains departing hourly. From Imbe Station, Tempo Kiln is within walking distance. JR train fare from Okayama to Imbe is approximately ¥500-¥750.

  • Walking

    From JR Imbe Station, exit and walk straight. The area around Imbe Station is the heart of the Bizen pottery district, with many workshops and galleries. Tempo Kiln is located within this area, easily accessible on foot. There are no specific costs associated with walking to Tempo Kiln.

Unlock the Best of Tempo Kiln

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Tempo Kiln

Tempo Kiln, nestled in the heart of Inbe, Bizen, Okayama, represents a tangible link to the area's celebrated pottery tradition. Bizen ware, or Bizen-yaki, boasts a history stretching back over a thousand years, evolving from Sue pottery techniques introduced during the Kofun period. The Imbe district, where Tempo Kiln is located, has been the epicenter of Bizen ware production, fostering generations of artisans. Bizen ware distinguishes itself through its simplicity and natural aesthetic. Eschewing glazes and paints, Bizen pottery relies on the unique properties of the clay, the way pieces are packed in the kiln, the temperature variations within the kiln, and the effects of ash and charcoal during firing to create its distinctive character. Firing occurs at high temperatures reaching 1200 to 1300 degrees Celsius, resulting in exceptionally hard and durable pieces. The nuances of the firing process give rise to a variety of patterns and colors, including goma (sesame seed), hidasuki (scarlet lines), and yohen (kiln change). Tempo Kiln serves as a reminder of the traditional methods employed in Bizen ware production. Although the kiln may no longer be active, its presence evokes the atmosphere of a bygone era, where artisans meticulously crafted pottery for both practical use and artistic expression. The surrounding area is dotted with workshops and galleries where contemporary potters continue to uphold the Bizen tradition, offering visitors the opportunity to witness the creation process and acquire unique pieces.

Popular Experiences near Tempo Kiln

Popular Hotels near Tempo Kiln

Select Currency