Frequently Asked Questions about Yamakawa Pottery Imports

Welcome to Yamakawa Pottery Imports! We specialize in bringing the finest Japanese ceramics to the world. This FAQ section aims to answer your questions about our products, services, and company.

About Yamakawa Pottery Imports

What is Yamakawa Pottery Imports?

Yamakawa Pottery Imports is a leading importer and retailer of high-quality Japanese pottery. We work directly with skilled artisans across Japan to source unique and beautiful pieces, offering a diverse range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. We provide direct import services, retail sales through our online platform and showroom (by appointment), wholesale distribution to boutiques, and custom order fulfillment for larger projects.

Where are you located?

Our headquarters are located at 7-2-15 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku Central Building, 24th Floor, Tokyo, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan. While we don't have a public showroom, appointments can be arranged for those wishing to view our inventory in person.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us via phone at +81 3-3344-1111 or email at info@yamakawapotteryimports.com. We strive to respond to all inquiries within 24-48 business hours.

Our Services

What types of pottery do you import?

We import a wide variety of Japanese pottery, including but not limited to: teaware (teapots, teacups, tea sets), tableware (plates, bowls, serving dishes), decorative pieces (vases, sculptures), and kitchenware. We work with artisans specializing in various techniques, including Arita ware, Kutani ware, and Bizen ware, ensuring a diverse collection reflecting the rich heritage of Japanese ceramics.

Do you offer wholesale services?

Yes, we offer wholesale distribution to boutiques and retailers. Please contact us directly at info@yamakawapotteryimports.com to discuss wholesale pricing and minimum order quantities. We are happy to provide you with our current catalog and discuss your specific needs.

Can I place a custom order?

Yes, we accept custom orders. This may involve working with an artisan to create a unique piece to your specifications or ordering multiples of an existing piece. Lead times vary depending on the complexity and availability of the artisan. Please contact us early in your project timeline to discuss the feasibility and timelines for custom orders.

Shipping and Payment

What are your shipping options and costs?

Our shipping options and costs vary depending on the destination, size, and weight of your order. We offer a range of shipping methods, including standard shipping, express shipping, and insured shipping. Shipping costs will be calculated at checkout or provided as a separate quote before order processing.

What payment methods do you accept?

We currently accept payment via bank transfer and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).

Returns and Refunds

What is your return policy?

We want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. We accept returns within 14 days of delivery for undamaged, unopened items in their original packaging. The customer is responsible for return shipping costs. Please contact us at info@yamakawapotteryimports.com before returning any item to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number.

About Japanese Pottery Techniques

What are some of the traditional pottery techniques used?

Many of the pieces we import utilize time-honored techniques passed down through generations of artisans. These include raku firing, which creates unique crackled glazes; anagama firing, known for its wood-fired aesthetic; and various glazing techniques producing distinctive colors and textures. We can provide detailed information on the specific techniques employed for individual pieces upon request.

Resources

Where can I learn more about Japanese pottery?

We encourage you to explore the rich history and artistry of Japanese ceramics. You can find many resources online, including museums and cultural centers dedicated to Japanese art and crafts. We are happy to provide additional resources and recommendations upon request.

We hope this FAQ section has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to sharing the beauty of Japanese pottery with you.

Elegant Japanese ceramics on display for spring sale

Exclusive Spring Pottery Sale - Up to 30% Off

Elevate your home with authentic Japanese ceramics. Limited time offers on select collections.

Shop the Sale Now

About Yamakawa Pottery Imports

For generations, Yamakawa Pottery Imports has been dedicated to bringing the exquisite artistry of Japanese ceramics to homes around the world. Founded in the heart of Tokyo by the Yamakawa family, our journey began with a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and meticulous craftsmanship inherent in Japanese pottery.

Our founder, Aiko Yamakawa, inherited a passion for ceramics from her grandfather, a renowned collector and connoisseur of traditional Japanese pottery. Growing up surrounded by these timeless pieces, she developed a keen eye for quality and design, and a profound respect for the artisans who create them.

Based in Tokyo, we work directly with renowned kilns and artisans across Japan, from the historic pottery centers of Seto and Mino to the rustic kilns of Shigaraki and Bizen. This direct relationship ensures that we curate a collection that embodies both time-honored tradition and innovative contemporary design. We are committed to showcasing the diversity and beauty of Japanese ceramic art, from the refined elegance of porcelain to the earthy warmth of stoneware.

Our mission extends beyond simply importing and selling pottery. We aim to be cultural ambassadors, sharing the stories behind each piece and educating our customers about the techniques, history, and regional variations of Japanese ceramics. We believe that each item in our collection is not just a functional object, but a work of art that carries with it centuries of tradition and the spirit of the artisan.

At Yamakawa Pottery Imports, we are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that every piece of pottery we offer meets the highest standards of quality and authenticity. We invite you to explore our collection and discover the perfect Japanese ceramic to enhance your home and enrich your life. From delicate teaware that elevates the simple act of tea drinking to statement vases that become focal points in any room, each piece is chosen with care and intended to bring joy and beauty for years to come. We are more than just importers; we are curators of culture, and we are thrilled to share our passion with you.

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Artisan working in a Japanese pottery workshop

Our Services

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Direct Import

We meticulously select and directly import fine ceramics from esteemed kilns across Japan. This direct sourcing approach guarantees the authenticity and exceptional quality of every piece, ensuring our customers receive only genuine Japanese craftsmanship.

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Retail Sales

Explore our thoughtfully curated collections of Japanese ceramics, available for retail purchase through our online store and in select partner boutiques. Discover unique teaware, elegant vases, and exquisite tableware to enrich your home and lifestyle.

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Wholesale Distribution

Elevate your retail offerings by partnering with us for wholesale distribution. We provide boutiques and stores with access to our exclusive collections of Japanese ceramics, enhancing your product range with authentic and highly sought-after pieces.

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Online Sales Platform

Our user-friendly online platform offers a seamless and secure shopping experience. Browse our extensive catalog, view detailed product descriptions and high-resolution images, and purchase your favorite Japanese pottery from the comfort of your home, with worldwide shipping available.

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Custom Orders

Realize your unique vision with our bespoke custom order service. We collaborate with skilled artisans to create personalized ceramic pieces tailored to your specific requirements, whether for individual use, special events, or corporate gifts. Bring your creative ideas to life with Yamakawa Pottery Imports.

Current Special Offers

Elegant teaware set on sale

Spring Teaware Set Sale

Enjoy 25% off on our exquisite teaware sets. Perfect for enhancing your tea ceremony or everyday enjoyment. Experience the tranquility of Japanese tea culture with our beautifully crafted sets, designed to elevate every tea moment.

Discount: 25% Off

Validity: Valid until May 31st, 2024

Shop Teaware Sets
Collection of ceramic vases on discount

Vase Collection Discount

Receive 30% off on all vases from our signature collections. Add a touch of Japanese artistry to your living space with our stunning range of ceramic vases, from minimalist designs to intricately decorated pieces.

Discount: 30% Off

Validity: Valid until June 15th, 2024

Explore Vase Collection
Discount for first orders

First Order Discount

New customers get 15% off their first order. Discover the beauty of Yamakawa Pottery Imports today! Begin your journey into the world of Japanese ceramics and find exquisite pieces to cherish.

Discount: 15% Off

Validity: Limited time offer

Get First Order Discount

What Our Customers Are Saying

Anya Petrova, Interior Designer

"The quality of the pottery is exceptional, and the designs are even more beautiful in person. Yamakawa Pottery Imports truly brings the best of Japanese craftsmanship to my design projects, adding a touch of elegance and authenticity that my clients adore."

- Anya Petrova

Interior Designer

Kenji Tanaka, Tea Ceremony Enthusiast

"I was looking for authentic Japanese teaware to enhance my tea ceremony practice, and Yamakawa Pottery Imports exceeded my expectations. The service was excellent, the selection is superb, and the shipping was fast and secure. The teaware is exquisite and has truly elevated my tea experiences."

- Kenji Tanaka

Tea Ceremony Enthusiast

Sophia Dubois, Boutique Owner

"As a boutique owner specializing in unique home goods, partnering with Yamakawa Pottery Imports has been a game-changer. Their wholesale program is fantastic, and our customers absolutely love the distinctive and beautiful ceramic pieces. It's been a wonderful addition to our store."

- Sophia Dubois

Boutique Owner

Why Choose Yamakawa Pottery Imports?

Meet Our Team

Aiko Yamakawa, Founder & CEO

Aiko Yamakawa

Founder & CEO

Aiko Yamakawa is the visionary founder of Yamakawa Pottery Imports, driven by a lifelong passion for Japanese ceramics and a profound vision to share the exquisite beauty and artistry of this craft with enthusiasts around the world.

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Hiroshi Sato, Head of Sourcing

Hiroshi Sato

Head of Sourcing

Hiroshi Sato is our expert Head of Sourcing, skillfully managing our relationships with artisans and kilns across Japan. With an unparalleled eye for quality, Hiroshi ensures that we bring you only the most authentic and highest-grade ceramics.

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Sakura Tanaka, Sales & Marketing Manager

Sakura Tanaka