Crafting Excellence in
Kyoto Ceramics
Since 1935, KUMAGAI has been bridging traditional
Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary design
creating timeless ceramic works that honor our cultural heritage.
About KUMAGAI
KUMAGAI Co.Ltd. founded in 1935 and located in Kyoto prefecture, is a wholesale specializing in Kyoto ware (Kyoyaki-Kiyomizuyaki). We have been expanding our network with many ceramic artists and pottery producers proposing new commodities.
From tableware such as teacups, plates and bowls, we also produce tea utensils, incense burners and decorative objects and picture frames. In addition, we customize accessories like pendants, small articles for sewing and Buddhist altar fittings on clients' requirements.
We dedicate our every work to promoting Japanese traditional arts to Japan as well as to the world, and bringing people happiness and great sensation.
1935
Founded
90+
Years of Excellence
Traditional Craftsmanship
Preserving centuries-old techniques passed down through generations of master craftsmen in Kyoto.
Contemporary Innovation
Collaborating with modern artists and designers to create unique pieces that blend tradition with innovation.nce
Global Reach
Sharing the beauty of Japanese ceramics worldwide through our network of international partners and exhibitions.
Kyoto Ware Heritage
As the capital of Japan for over one thousand years until 1868, Kyoto had been creating its original culture of grace. Kyoto ware (Kyo-yaki, Kiyomizu-yaki) is the ceramic ware with gorgeous, delicate and highly polished sensibility.
Historical Significance
Since after the capital was transferred to Kyoto in 794, the main crafts produced in Kyoto and the suburban area were Sueki-ware (type of unglazed earthenware) and Ryokuyutoki ware (type of green-glazed earthenware).
From the last part of the Muromachi period through the Azuchi-Momoyama period (the 16th century), along with the prevalence of tea ceremony, as well as many original potteries, such as Raku-yaki (Raku-earthenware) especially for tea ceremony, became popular among the aristocracy and the samurai class within the capital.
Master Craftsmen Legacy
In The Edo Period (the 17th-19th century), due to the great potter Nonomura Ninsei's work characterized by its gorgeous style, the base of Kyoto ware (Kyo-yaki, Kiyomizu-yaki) was established.
Later other remarkable potters such as Ogata Kenzan, Aoki Mokubei, Okuda Eisen, Knkodou Kisuke, Ninnami Douhachi played important roles in the development of Kyoto ware. Today's Kyoto ware is now produced by advanced masters skills and modern sensibility, keeping the spirits of the tradition.
Unique Characteristics
Since the clay cannot be easily found in Kyoto, potters had to transport clays from other regions and blend in their original ways to make potteries. As Kyoto was the producing area, as well as the biggest market, potters in Kyoto improved their skills and aesthetics based on the requirements and criticisms from masters of tea ceremony, aristocracies, samurai class and wealthy townspeople. Such spirits still have been encouraging potters in Kyoto.
Our Products
We deal in variety of ceramic wares such as tableware, tea utensils, interior decorations, proposing new commodities with the sensibility of highly polished Kyo-yaki, Kiyomizu-yaki, and the handcraft skills.
Tableware & Interior Decorations
Tea cups and bowls for everyday use and parties. Ceramic pictures and ceramic ornaments.
Tea Ceremony Bowls
Bowls with variety of glaze and skillful hand-painting, crafted for the traditional tea ceremony.
Custom & Specialty Items
Incense burners, Buddhist altar fittings, and bespoke accessories tailored to client requirements.
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Wholesale Services
As a specialized Kyoto ceramic wholesaler since 1935, we provide comprehensive wholesale solutions connecting traditional artisans with global business partners.
Wholesale Services
Comprehensive wholesale supply of Kyoto ceramics to retailers, galleries, and business partners worldwide.
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Multi-kiln network coordination
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Flexible order quantities
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Quality assurance & consistency
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Global shipping & logistics
OEM Manufacturing
Custom ceramic production tailored to your specifications, from concept to delivery.
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Hotel & restaurant tableware
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Corporate gifts & awards
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Private label products
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Small to large batch production
Buddhist Altar Fittings
Specialized production of religious and ceremonial items with cultural sensitivity.
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Incense burners
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Ceremonial vessels
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Memorial items
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Temple accessories
International Collaboration
Working with artists and designers worldwide to bridge Eastern and Western aesthetics.
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Artist partnerships
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Cultural exchange projects
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Export services
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Global exhibitions
Contact Us
As a specialized Kyoto ceramic wholesaler since 1935, we provide comprehensive wholesale solutions connecting traditional artisans with global business partners.
Exhibition room
Rakuchu-Rakugai
At the Gallery Rakuchu-Rakugai, we exhibit various kinds of ceramic wares; tableware such as tea cups, tea utensils such as tea ceremony bowls and interior decorations such as incense burners and flower vases.
Get in Touch
Address
〒607-8322
Kyoto Yamashina-ku, Kawata,
Kiyomizuyakidanchicho 9-5
Japan
Phone
TEL: +81-75-501-8083
FAX: +81-75-501-5876
Business Hours
9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Weekdays)
Closed on Sundays and holidays
Company Information
Company Information
Kumagaisoushouten Co., Ltd.
Representative
Representative DirectorTakayoshi Kumagai
Founded
April 1935
Capital
20 million yen