Let's meet cute bowls and cafes! Take a walk along Tsuboya Yachimun Street

"Tsuboya Yachimun-dori" is a street lined with pottery, workshops, and retailers of the traditional Okinawan pottery "Yachimun". It has a long history, and potters built in various places by the Ryukyu Royal Government about 300 years ago were gathered here, and are now very popular as Yachimun's hometown.

Along the street, not only long-established potters, but also workshops, select shops, cafes, etc. dealing with the works of young artists are lined up, and it is an area that has survived the war, so there are old-fashioned charm spots behind the alleys.

"Tsuboya Yachimun-dori" is full of taste that mixes old and now. The unique cityscape that you get lost in another world is recommended not only for those who want Yachimun, but also for those who want to take a leisurely stroll.

Yachimun made in Tsuboya is called "Tsuboya ware". At the long-established pottery of Tsuboya ware, "Ikutoen Yachimun Dojo", a pottery experience class is held every day! Craftsmen will teach you carefully from scratch, so even first-time people can easily experience it.

Courses include shisa making, painting, potter's wheel molding, hand twisting molding, and one-day apprenticeship experience. There are many variations in the start date and time and work, so please choose according to your travel schedule and preferences.

"Gumaguwa" is a brand shop designed by Tsuboya ware pottery "Ikutoen". We want young people to feel Tsuboya ware close to us, so we are making vessels that are easy to use on a daily basis, mainly by young craftsmen.

The masterpiece "Morning Series" offers mugs, bowls, plates, etc. There are plenty of dishes that are perfect for Western-style breakfast and meals, such as patterns and shapes, while taking advantage of the color and texture of Yachimun. In addition to the morning series, there are shining miscellaneous goods such as chopstick rests with stylish designs and cooking tools selected from inside and outside the prefecture. There are items that will make your usual dining table a little richer.

The store name "Nchazeku" refers to "Ncha = soil" and "Zek = creator" in Okinawan words. As the name suggests, the works of three parents and children who are "earth craftsmen" are lined up in the store full of warmth of wood. Mr. Ishikura's parents' house, the store manager, was originally a Tsuboya potter. Born and raised in Tsuboya, he moved his base to Nanjo City with the independence of his husband, set up the "Ishikura Pottery Shop" and worked hard with his family to make it.

The work of the three people has different senses and individuality, and it is exactly three people. One of the most recommended items is the ceramic sake ware Karakara. It is mainly used in the Ryukyu cultural sphere, and the Awamori poured with Karakara is exquisite. In addition, there are a wide variety of products, from traditional ones to modern ones. All of them are casual and fashionable, and there are only vessels that can be attached to each other for a long time.

"Bukubukucha" is said to have been brewed in Kingdom of ryukyu to entertain guests. The shop where you can drink this noble tea is "Uchina Chaya & Gallery Bukubukucha" along Tsuboya Yachimun Street.

The appearance like cotton candy and oyster ice is excellent in photography! At the shop, you can enjoy a set of Okinawan traditional sweets "Chinsuko" and "Kunpen" along with bukubuku tea.

In addition to eating and drinking space, there is also a gallery. Here, not only Tsuboya ware, but also pottery and glass works collected from all over the prefecture are sold. After taking a break with tea, try to experience Okinawan crafts where handwork techniques shine.

How was it? You can look for your favorite Yachimun, challenge yourself to make Yachimun, or take a break in a cafe with an excellent atmosphere. "Tsuboya Yachimun Street" is not a car, but it is recommended that you enjoy walking slowly while feeling the wind of Okinawa.