Episode 1: Insights from a Kagurazaka Store Owner – “Japanese Pottery Should Be Picked Up and Felt” – Exploring Maruoka Toen and the Charm of Ceramics in Tokyo
Kagurazaka Store Owner Interview Series Begins
This marks the start of the series “Exploring the Charm of Kagurazaka Shopping Street.” For the first episode, we interviewed Shinichi Okazaki, the fourth-generation president of Maruoka Toen, a long-established pottery shop in Kagurazaka with a history of over 130 years. Kagurazaka is home to many pottery shops, thanks to its ties with traditional geisha culture, Ryotei (traditional high-end restaurants) culture, and historic luxury residential areas. Discover the appeal of Japanese pottery and the history of Kagurazaka through the stories shared by Kagurazaka store owner Mr. Okazaki!
The History of Maruoka Toen, a Pottery Shop with Over 130 Years of Tradition
Founded in 1892 (Meiji 25), Maruoka Toen is a historic pottery shop. Its founder, Seitaro Okazaki, was Mr. Okazaki’s great-grandfather. At the time, pottery was transported via waterways, with wholesalers in Ningyo-cho and Kakigara-cho along the Nihonbashi River supplying pottery to Kagurazaka. Today, advancements in transportation allow for direct sourcing from production areas. While the historic Kawai Pottery Shop, which had close ties to Maruoka Toen, sadly closed in 2017 due to road expansion projects, Maruoka Toen continues to preserve its tradition in Kagurazaka.
The Kagurazaka area itself is known as a historic shopping district. It is home to numerous shops with histories exceeding 100 years, contributing to the district’s unique and tranquil atmosphere.
The Deep Connection Between Pottery and Kagurazaka
Kagurazaka has its roots in the geisha culture, which dates back to the late Edo period (1603–1867), fostering a rich tradition of high-class restaurants. At its peak in 1937–1938, there were reportedly over 600 geisha and 150 restaurants in the area. Maruoka Toen had close ties with these establishments, many of which were its regular customers. When Mr. Okazaki began working in the family business in 1983, there were still around 30 restaurants. Although the number has decreased, connections with local dining establishments remain strong.
In recent years, the way restaurants purchase pottery has also changed. “In the past, they would buy large quantities of the same type of dish, but now many prefer a variety of plates in smaller quantities to match their dishes,” says Mr. Okazaki. Even with these changes, pottery shops where people can physically pick up and choose items remain valuable.
The Importance of Picking Up and Feeling Pottery
Mr. Okazaki emphasizes that “pottery should be picked up and felt.” Unlike in Western culture, where tableware is primarily left on the table, Japanese dining culture involves holding dishes in one’s hands. This makes the weight and texture of the pottery crucial factors.
At Maruoka Toen, lightweight and thin pottery is particularly popular. Sake cups, known as “Guinomi,” are popular among sake enthusiasts. Thin sake cups are especially favored, as they offer a better mouthfeel—a fact supported by scientific research. “Having our carefully curated selection appreciated by customers is the greatest reward,” says Mr. Okazaki. The many restaurants in Kagurazaka with a strong passion for sake resonate well with Maruoka Toen’s dedication to its craft.
A Growing Number of International Customers
In recent years, international customers have accounted for up to half of the store’s sales on some days. Both tourists and local residents from overseas visit the shop. Popular items among foreign customers include Hashioki (chopstick rests), lacquerware, matcha bowls, and pottery with a “Wabi-Sabi” aesthetic, such as Bizen and Hagi ware. However, many are surprised by “Meoto Chawan” (matching husband-and-wife bowls of different sizes), which is a unique Japanese tradition.
The Maruoka Toen Motto: “Helping Highlight the Beauty of Cuisine”
Mr. Okazaki explains, “Pottery is the supporting role, and the real magic happens when it holds the food.” Alongside strong connections with restaurants, the store takes great care in its service to both local and international customers. These philosophies and commitments make pottery shopping at Maruoka Toen a truly delightful experience.
Visit Kagurazaka!
This interview provided insights into the charm of Kagurazaka and the history of its pottery stores. If you’re intrigued, visit Maruoka Toen and experience the joy of selecting pottery by hand. It’s sure to lead to new discoveries!
If you’re not fluent in Japanese, join one of our tours with an English-speaking guide to explore the history, geisha culture, and vibrant dining scene of Kagurazaka before visiting Maruoka Toen. It will make your pottery shopping experience even more enjoyable!
Store Information: Maruoka Toen
Address: 3-6 Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Hours: Tuesday–Friday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM, Saturday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM, Sunday & Holidays: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.