Arita Uchiyama District

In early 17th century, Sanpei Ri and other potters found porcelain stones, and Arita succeeded in porcelain production for the first time in Japan. As the pottery industry grew, a town sprang up which is Uchiyama District.

The town with architecture from late Edo Period to early Showa Period, such as plastered homes and western-style buildings is valued for its history, designated as national preservation district for groups of historic buildings. Stroll along the retro street that has supported the 400-year history of Arita ware. Stop by at pottery show rooms and shops and find your favorite ware.

The street is connected to the “back alley with Tonbai Wall.” Tonbai Wall is made up of pottery tools and waste heat-resistant bricks (tonbai) used for kilns - very fitting for Arita.

Uchiyama District stages Arita Tokiichi (porcelain fair) in spring which attracts porcelain fans from all over Japan. In fall, Arita Sarayama Festival hosts a parade of dancing residents making sounds with porcelain dishes.