Quiet streets lined with colorful pottery —that is what you will find at the “Mashiko Autumn Pottery Fair ,” held every November since 1966. This event has long been cherished as a place where artisans and visitors can connect directly. Simply strolling through offers the warmth of handcrafted pieces and the charm of the town, making it a special destination.
This article introduces the highlights of the Mashiko Autumn Pottery Fair, how long to stay, and a Q&A designed to reassure first-time visitors. Whether you are traveling solo or with family, the information here will help you plan your trip with confidence.
Here you will find tips to ease any worries before your visit and make your autumn journey more comfortable.
Contents
Mashiko Pottery Fair Access Guide
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Tokyo Station
Take the JR Utsunomiya Line to “Utsunomiya Station” (about 1 hour 50 minutes)
From Utsunomiya Station, take a Kanto Bus bound for Mashiko and get off at “Mashiko Sankokan Iriguchi” (about 1 hour)
From the bus stop it is about a 5-minute walk to the popular artisan stall area
Total travel time: about 3 hours
Shinjuku Station
Take the JR Shonan-Shinjuku Line to “Utsunomiya Station” (about 1 hour 50 minutes)
From Utsunomiya Station, take a Kanto Bus bound for Mashiko and get off at “Mashiko Sankokan Iriguchi” (about 1 hour)
From the bus stop it is about a 5-minute walk to the popular artisan stall area
Total travel time: about 3 hours 10 minutes
One Point Advice
Visitor Information: Hours & Admission
Dates: November 1 (Sat) – November 4 (Tue), 2025, during the annual Japanese pottery fair
Hours: 9:00–17:00 (until 16:00 on the final day)
Closed: Open every day during the event
Admission: Free
Mashiko Pottery Fair Official Website
Mashiko Pottery Fair Highlights & Itinerary
Jonaisaka Street｜Main Pottery Market
The heart of the fair is Jonaisaka Street . More than 500 tents line the road, where potters and kilns sell directly, allowing visitors to hear the stories behind each work. From tableware to vases, the variety is broad, ranging from affordable pieces to one-of-a-kind works. The street is crowded in the morning but becomes calmer in the afternoon, giving you time to browse and find your favorites. Beyond shopping, the atmosphere of a Japanese town enveloped in pottery is part of the appeal.
Time required: 60–90 minutes
Admission: Free
Sayado Area｜Artisan Booths & Unique Finds
Located slightly off Jonaisaka Street, the Sayado area is home to many booths of independent and young potters. Here you can encounter new sensibilities and experimental works. It is relatively quiet and easy to walk through, making it ideal for those who want to take their time away from the bustle. Talking directly with Japanese artisans at small tents gives each piece a personal story to take home.
Time required: 40–60 minutes
Admission: Free
Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art｜Tradition & Modern Works
The Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art is a must-visit along with the fair. Its museum and exhibition rooms present the history of Mashiko ware and the works of master potters, offering insights that street browsing alone cannot provide. Outdoor climbing kiln remains and curated collections give context to the pottery you see at the fair. Located to the east of the venue, this popular Japanese museum is within walking distance and fits easily into a half-day model course.
Time required: 40–50 minutes
Admission: Adults 600 yen / Seniors under 65 and children 300 yen
Mashiko Pottery Fair｜Afternoon & Next-day Trips
On Foot｜Shoji Hamada Memorial Mashiko Sankokan Museum
About a 10-minute walk from the fair, the Sankokan Museum is the former home of Living National Treasure Shoji Hamada. It houses his collected folk crafts and personal works, allowing you to see both Mashiko ware and world crafts in one place. It offers a quiet environment to reflect on the essence of craftsmanship away from the bustle of the fair.
By Train｜Mooka Railway SL Train
From Mashiko Station, take the Mooka Railway about 20 minutes to Mooka Station. On weekends, the SL Mooka steam train operates, giving passengers a nostalgic journey. Extending your trip after the pottery fair to experience the railway itself is a unique feature of this region. It is a popular activity for train enthusiasts and families alike.
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A peaceful countryside station adorned with cherry blossoms in spring—Kita Mooka Station offers a glimpse of Japan’s nostalgic charm. Watching the SL (steam …
Next Day Trip｜Nikko Toshogu Shrine
About 90 minutes from Mashiko by train and bus, Nikko Toshogu Shrine is a perfect next-day excursion. Famous for its ornate carvings and the “See no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Japanese culture . Visiting this sacred Japanese World Heritage site after immersing yourself in craft at the pottery fair adds depth to your overall trip in Tochigi.
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How to Visit Nikko Toshogu Shrine and What to See
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, surrounded by vermilion gates and vivid carvings, offers an authentic experience of Japanese history and traditional artistry. Even sol…
Mashiko Pottery Fair Q&A
Can I ship pottery purchased at the fair?
Many shops offer delivery services, so you do not need to carry heavy items.
How much time should I plan to stay?
You can see the main areas in half a day, but if you want to shop and enjoy meals, a full day is recommended. Shuttle buses inside the venue are available for 100 yen per ride.
What should first-time visitors bring? Are exhibitor details and maps provided?
Comfortable shoes, a reusable bag, and a folding umbrella are recommended. Exhibitor lists and fair guides can be checked on the official website.
Do popular pieces sell out quickly?
Works by well-known potters often sell out on the first morning, so arrive early if you have your eye on something special.
Are there places to eat or rest inside the venue?
Yes, cafes and food stalls offer local snacks and sweets. They are convenient spots to take a break while shopping.
Mashiko Pottery Fair Summary｜What’s Next?
The Mashiko Autumn Pottery Fair is a rare chance to meet Japanese artisans directly, with the whole town wrapped in the spirit of pottery for four days. With every step, you may come across a piece that becomes the highlight of your trip.
Access and highlights are well arranged, making it easy even for first-time visitors. You can enjoy pottery and town strolls without worrying about crowds or weather, which adds to its charm.
Next, why not consider extending your journey to explore Utsunomiya or Nikko along with Mashiko?
