Brown stoneware mug made in Tokoname-Aichi Prefecture by master craftsman Shimizu Genji.

Tokonamé specializes in the art of ceramics and particularly known for the terracotta teapot. Tokoname is the oldest and most important of Japan’s six ancient pottery centers 2 with Shigaraki, Bizen, Tanba, Echizen and Seto. Ceramics have been produced there since the end of the Heian period (11th century), and traces of these productions can be found in Kamakura or on the north coast of Honshū. The Hokujo oven is located in the city of Tokonamé. The current Hokujo Kiln is run by master craftsman Shimizu Genji.