A little while ago, we came across a small ceramics corner inside a Tokyo department store in Kinshicho. It was one of those seasonal pop-ups tucked into a quiet section, easy to overlook but full of charm. Among the many lovely pieces, one plate really caught my eye. It had a soft, matte finish, a perfectly imperfect shape, and just felt right. I bought it immediately, not knowing much about the maker but only that I liked how it felt in my hands.
A Studio in the Hills
As it turns out, that plate was made by Kazuhito Yamamoto san, a potter based in Tokigawa, Saitama. The staff at the pop-up were kind enough to tell us more about him. He works in a mountain-side studio called Yumitate-gama, and recently opened a new space called Gallery Daisan Soko (Third Warehouse). They also mentioned his warm personality and recommended a lovely soba restaurant nearby called Toki-an. That was enough to spark our curiosity. We wanted to see where that beautiful plate had come from.
Tokigawa is surprisingly close to Tokyo and can be reached in about two hours by car. Despite the convenience, it feels like a completely different world. The area is full of lush hills, winding country roads, and a kind of stillness that city-dwellers will immediately notice. This is not really a place you visit spontaneously. Since the gallery has irregular hours, it is best to call ahead before planning your trip.
The studio and gallery sit quietly in the natural surroundings. There are no large signs or flashy shopfronts. Instead, a simple building blends into the trees, with shelves of pottery neatly arranged inside. The space feels very much like a working studio rather than a shop, which makes it all the more charming.
Pottery That’s Meant to Be Used
Yamamoto-san’s work is exactly the kind of pottery I love. It’s beautiful, yes, but more importantly, it’s practical. His pieces are dishwasher-safe, strong enough for daily use, and feel reassuring in the hand. The matte glazes, often in grey, charcoal, or soft white and have a calm presence that suits any table.
What makes these pieces truly special is their subtle individuality. Each one is a little different. You can sense the rhythm of the maker’s hands in the form, and nothing feels mass-produced. These are items you’ll want to reach for every day, whether you’re serving soba noodles or just a piece of toast.
The pricing is also very reasonable. It is easy to pick up a few items without worrying too much, and you leave feeling like you have invested in something you will actually use and enjoy every day.
Meeting the Potter
When we visited, Yamamoto-san was there in person. He welcomed us kindly and let us browse at our own pace. He does not try to sell or explain too much, and there is no sense of pressure. If you ask questions, he is happy to answer, and it is clear that he takes great care in his work. There is something very grounding about meeting the person who made the objects you bring into your daily life. It adds depth and meaning to even the simplest meal.
About Toki-an: A Soba Stop Worth Making
If you make the trip to Tokigawa, I highly recommend stopping by Toki-an. What I didn’t expect was that I’d already used more of Yamamoto-san’s pottery at Toki-an before even arriving at his studio.
Toki-an serves whole-grain soba made from scratch, with a rich depth of flavour and simple, satisfying dishes. The interior is cosy, and the food is often sold out by early afternoon, so it’s best to arrive early. Their use of handmade pottery elevates the experience without any fuss.
That meal at Toki-an was easily one of the best soba experiences we’ve had anywhere.
Before You Go
- Bring cash, as neither the gallery nor the soba shop accepts card payment.
- The gallery is open irregularly, so please call ahead before visiting.
- The area is difficult to access without a car. Driving is the easiest option.
- Arrive early at Toki-an if you plan to eat, as they often sell out.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Yumitate-gama felt less like shopping and more like stepping into someone’s creative world. There is something deeply satisfying about discovering that a plate you admired at lunch was made just down the road by the same hands you later shook in person.
Whether you’re drawn to ceramics, looking for a peaceful day trip from Tokyo, or just curious about the people behind the things we use every day, I can’t recommend this experience enough. If you’re into food photography, you’ll appreciate how well these pieces work on camera. Their textures and muted tones photograph beautifully.
I ended up leaving with an entire box full. 😁
Yumitate-gama & Gallery Daisan Soko (弓立窯 & gallery第三倉庫)
Kazuhito Yamamoto
📍354-2 Otsuki, Tokigawa-machi, Hiki-gun, Saitama, Japan 355-0363
📞 0493-65-3864
Please contact in advance before visiting.
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Toki-an (全粒粉蕎麦 とき庵)
📍756-4 Nishidaira, Tokigawa-machi, Hiki-gun, Saitama Japan 355-0364
📞 0493-67-0517
🕚 Opening Hours:
Tue – Fri: from 11:30 until sold out
Sat & Sun: from 11:15 until sold out
Closed on Mondays
tabelog https://tabelog.com/saitama/A1105/A110605/11003136/
