Category:Yamaguchi Prefecture

Located at the western end of Honshu, Yamaguchi Prefecture bridges the main island of Japan with Kyushu, facing both the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan. Its position made it a key point for maritime trade and cultural exchange. Yamaguchi is also historically significant as the home of the Chōshū domain, which played a central role in the Meiji Restoration. The prefecture’s crafts reflect both its strategic location and its cultural refinement.

Yamaguchi is characterized by a blend of **sophisticated aesthetics and practical craft traditions**. Its coastal geography encouraged contact with China and Korea, while its samurai heritage fostered refined artistic practices. The crafts of Yamaguchi often combine durability with elegance, bridging everyday use and artistic expression.

• Hagi ware (萩焼, Hagi-yaki) – Renowned for its soft, earthy textures and subtle glazes, highly valued in the tea ceremony for its warmth and wabi-sabi qualities.
• Ōuchi lacquerware (大内塗, Ōuchi-nuri) – A local lacquer tradition featuring red and black bases with gold decorative patterns, originally tied to the Ōuchi clan.
• Hofu paper (防府和紙, Hōfu washi) – Traditional handmade paper, durable and elegant, used in calligraphy and crafts.

Yamaguchi Prefecture’s crafts symbolize **refinement born of tradition and exchange**. From the iconic Hagi ware used in tea ceremonies to the luxurious Ōuchi lacquerware, Yamaguchi’s artisanal heritage continues to embody both cultural prestige and regional character.