Arita Sera

Welcome to Arita Sera, formerly known as the Akasaka Wholesale Pottery Complex. This expansive plaza is the definitive marketplace for Arita porcelain, functioning as both a retail hub for tourists and a major wholesale center…

We begin our exploration in the shops dedicated to everyday items. One of the core philosophies of Japanese ceramics is that beauty should not be reserved only for special occasions. …

As we move to the galleries specializing in luxury and art porcelain, the atmosphere becomes more hushed and reverent. Here, you will find works by master potters, including several who have been designated as 'Living National…

In recent years, Arita has embraced global collaboration, and several shops in Arita Sera are dedicated to these modern ventures. Here, you will find Arita ware designed by international architects and designers, blending…

Arita Sera remains a vital center for the wholesale trade, and several shops are specifically geared toward professional buyers from hotels and restaurants worldwide. In these areas, you will see 'stacks of white gold'—rows upon…

Exploring Arita Sera can be intensive, and the plaza offers several spots to rest and enjoy the local culinary culture. The Arita House and various cafes serve food and drink using the very porcelain sold in the shops. …

Twice a year, during Golden Week in the spring and again in late November, Arita Sera becomes the center of the Arita Porcelain Festival. This is a time of incredible energy and 'heroic voices' as the plaza is filled with stalls…

As we conclude our journey through Arita Sera, reflect on the incredible variety and vitality of the porcelain culture we have witnessed. From the simplest daily bowl to the most avant-garde contemporary design, this plaza is a…