THE STORIES ABOUT CULTURAL EXCHANGE BETWEEN FOREIGN COUNTRIES AND KYUSHU

Arita Ware: The "White Gold" that Fascinates the World

Yi Sam-pyeong went to Arita and discovered magnetic iron ore in Izumiyama Quarry in the early Edo Period. A ceramics industry developed there, making it the first porcelain production area in Japan. Arita ware exported to Europe was prized as art and called “white gold.” It became fashionable among royalty and titled nobility to decorate rooms with Oriental porcelain. Augustus II the Strong was particularly passionate about Oriental porcelain, and he collected Oriental porcelain including Arita ware in the Zwinger palace. Meissen porcelain, which has a stellar international reputation today, resulted from the enthusiasm of Augustus II, who wanted to make excellent porcelain like that found in the Orient.
Arita ware exported to Europe and Asia continues to be displayed in art museums around the world and charm us even today.

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There are several sightseeing facilities in Arita town, including a display of Arita ware and a climbing kiln. There is also a place where visitors can try making pottery using a potter’s wheel.