When stuck in a Japanese airport for an 8 hour lay-over, I had to escape.  Only two train stops and a 100-yard walk away was the Kokohame Pottery Trail.  The closest thing to fired-products experience that I have is from a stint at Elgin Butler Brick, I had little idea what I was looking at.  But the people were friendly and willing to accomodate a dumb American, so I had a great time. 

900 years ago, this area had dozens of pottery shops.  Kilns and chimneys everywhere.  Pottery in such abundance that is was used for construction, paths, and of course domestic items.  Several shops were open, and chimneys rose everywhere. 

There's a Japanese temple hidden on a small hill, the entrance behind a stand of bamboo.  Didn't feel right taking pictures there, too private.  A broken coupla dozen stone steps up, a dilapidated stage area, and closed off areas that led to what appeared from afar to be the residence.

These two towers were in an education area.    One is an original chimney.  The metal lattice is to keep the integrity of the brick as it expands.

Circle K in Japan serves a great sushi tray for the equivalent of only 3 US$.  You find out these things after a humid two-hour hike in a foreign country, when you're short of yen.