More about Ohmi Ceramics
The Signature of Ohmi Ceramics
At the edge of Kusatsu’s quiet hills, the Ohmi kiln breathes life into clay.
It’s here that Yoshinori Yamamoto, a licensed master potter, and his son Kazuma continue a vision that began in 1985; reviving a regional tradition that had nearly faded.
Drawing from the ancient spirit of Sue ware, they fire each piece slowly, allowing the natural tones of the clay to darken into deep black. The result is work that holds not just form, but memory.
From a minimal flower frog to a handcrafted sushi plate, each object invites use, not display. These are pieces made to live with, quiet companions to the everyday table, shaped with care and meant to be touched.
Where Japanese Pottery Holds Its Breath
To shape by hand is to shape with presence.
At Ohmi Ceramics, every curve and contour carries the quiet rhythm of its maker.
From the deep, velvety finish of a Chawanmushi bowl to the soft feel of ceramic espresso cups, the pieces invite stillness.
They’re not loud. They don’t compete. They simply live well in calm spaces.
Rather than hiding irregularities, the Yamamoto family embraces them, pursuing perfection through imperfection, in the spirit of wabi-sabi.
The subtle textures, gentle asymmetry, and signature black finish reveal the quiet beauty of things made slowly. Whether it’s a set of japanese ceramic tea cups or a minimalist ikebana vase, each piece is meant to be felt, not just seen.
A companion to your table, and to your time.

Yoshinori Yamamoto

Kazuma Yamamoto

Ohmi Ceramics Workshop

The Kiln

Ohmi Ceramics, in Kusatsu, Shiga
On the quiet edges of Kusatsu, Ohmi Ceramics carries forward a legacy shaped by calm, care, and connection to place. Founded in 1985 and officially named in 1997, the kiln reflects the slower rhythm of a town where tradition is part of daily life. At its heart is the Yamamoto family: Yoshinori, a licensed ceramic master, and his son Kazuma, who now works beside him.
Their pieces are formed with local clay using methods inspired by Sue ware, once fired in these same hills over a thousand years ago.
As part of the long tradition of Japanese pottery, their work celebrates restraint and quiet form.
From the everyday ceramic coffee mug to the expressive flower frog vase, each piece is finished in their signature black pottery, made to bring presence to the spaces we live in, not just beauty to the eye.
Ohmi Ceramics
Dark Harmony in Japanese Pottery
Explore how chawanmushi cups and ceramic coffee mugs bring balance to everyday settings. Simple forms. Black finish. Pieces made to be used, not just displayed.

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