
Gifu Prefecture, Japan
The Home of Mino Ware
Mino ware (美濃焼, Mino-yaki) is the collective name for ceramics made in the Tōnō region of eastern Gifu Prefecture centred on the pottery cities of Tajimi, Toki, Mizunami and Kani. With kilns dating back over 1,300 years, it is Japan's largest ceramics-producing region.
Mino's golden age came in the Momoyama period (1573–1615), when the tea ceremony inspired potters to create four iconic styles Shino, Oribe, Ki-Seto and Seto-guro, that still define Japanese tableware today. The Tōnō kilns still supply a large share of Japan's everyday ceramics.
More about Mino ware
What Is Mino Ware?
Mino ware, or Mino-yaki, is Japanese pottery made in southern Gifu Prefecture, around towns such as Tajimi, Toki, Mizunami and Kani. The region's rich clay deposits have supported pottery for well over a thousand years, and today Mino is one of Japan's largest ceramic-producing areas, making a large share of the country's everyday tableware.
Made for Everyday Life
Unlike Kutani ware, which is known for bold hand-painted decoration, Mino ware is prized for being practical. Pieces are made to be used daily, which is why so many Mino mugs, bowls and plates are sturdy enough for everyday meals. Check each product page for dishwasher and microwave guidance, as it varies by piece.
A Huge Variety of Glazes and Designs
Because Mino is a region rather than a single style, Mino ware comes in an enormous range of glazes, from deep tenmoku to rich cinnabar, alongside playful modern designs full of character.
Mino Ware for Your Home
Explore Mino ware Japanese mugs including the best-selling Japanese Cat Mug and Kuro Neko cat cup, rice bowls and ramen bowls for everyday meals, matcha bowls, sake sets and plates for entertaining. For gifting, our Mino ware gift sets arrive ready to give.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mino ware, or Mino-yaki, is Japanese pottery made in southern Gifu Prefecture. It's one of Japan's oldest ceramic traditions and today produces a large share of the country's everyday tableware.
Mino ware is everyday Japanese pottery known for its practical shapes and wide variety of glazes. Kutani ware is porcelain from Ishikawa Prefecture, known for bold hand-painted designs in five traditional colours.
Many Mino ware pieces are designed for everyday use and are dishwasher safe, but it varies by glaze and decoration. Check each product page for care instructions.




