Izumiyama Quarry (Izumiyama Jisekiba) Reveals the Origins of Arita Ware (Arita-yaki) in the Rock Face of Arita (Arita-chō), Saga (Saga-ken)
Izumiyama Quarry in Arita, Nishimatsuura District (Nishimatsuura-gun), Saga Prefecture, is an industrial heritage site where porcelain stone, the raw material for porcelain, was mined to support the development of Arita ware.
Rather than simply viewing the sheer white rock face, imagine the first stage leading from the discovery and mining of the raw material to forming, firing, and distribution. This can even change the way you look at finished vessels.
Porcelain Stone Is Said to Have Been Discovered in the Early 17th Century
In the early 17th century, Korean potter Yi Sam-pyeong and others are said to have discovered porcelain stone, the raw material for porcelain, at Izumiyama, leading to the start of porcelain production in Arita.
During your visit, consider not only the story of the individuals involved but also how porcelain production developed through the combination of a place where raw material was available and the skills of potters.
A Quarry That Supported Approximately 400 Years of Arita Ware Production
Long-term mining changed the shape of the mountain, and the exposed rock face visible today shows the passage of time during which porcelain stone was extracted.
Standing before the quarry remains, which contrast with the brilliance of finished vessels, makes it clear that Arita ware is an industry founded not only on artisans but also on raw materials and the mountain itself.
Part of the Site Was Designated a National Historic Site in 1980
Part of Izumiyama Quarry was designated a National Historic Site on March 24, 1980, and is protected as an archaeological site forming part of the Hizen Porcelain Kiln Sites (Hizen Jiki Kamaato).
Historic-site status does not mean visitors may freely collect stones. To preserve the current condition for future generations, stay within the designated viewing area and follow the signs on site.
Things to See at Izumiyama Quarry: Read the Time and Scale of Mining from the Rock Face
At the quarry, viewing the distant scene, rock face, ground, and surrounding facilities in that order makes it easier to connect the vast remains of mining with a human sense of scale.
Even from behind the fence, observing the color, contours, steep surfaces, and boundary with the vegetation reveals ample traces of mining over a long period.
Begin with an Overview of the Quarry Remains
After arriving, do not try to approach the rock wall. From a safe viewing position, look across the width and height of the quarry remains and the sequence of slopes.
Using people and nearby buildings as a scale makes the extent of raw-material extraction, which is difficult to imagine from 1 vessel, more concrete.
Observe the Color and Texture of the White Rock Face
The whiteness and shadows of the rock face change with the angle of the light. In addition to the strong midday light, angled light can make the surface contours easier to read.
A telephoto function lets you record details without crossing the fence, allowing observation without approaching dangerous slopes.
Compare the Quarry Remains with the Surrounding Vegetation
Look at the plants growing around the rock face and the places where the quarry remains meet the everyday townscape to observe the present landscape now that mining has almost ceased.
Do not determine the age or geology of the vegetation and rocks based only on appearance. Confirm details through museum materials and explanations on site.
Imagine the Process from Porcelain Stone to Porcelain
Izumiyama Quarry shows the entry point of mining, followed by many further processes such as preparing the raw material, forming, decorating, and firing.
Combining a visit here with Arita kilns, museums, and exhibition facilities provides a three-dimensional understanding of how mountain stone becomes a vessel.
Porcelain Stone Is the Starting Point of Porcelain
Porcelain stone does not become a vessel as it is. It is crushed, refined, and processed with water through several stages to create a material suitable for forming.
For detailed production methods that cannot be confirmed on site, refer to museum displays and explanations at kilns rather than oversimplifying them through a visitor's assumptions.
Consider the Division of Labor Between Mining and the Ceramic Industry
Arita ware has been supported by many occupations, including people who extracted the raw material, prepared the clay, formed the vessels, painted them, fired them, and transported them.
Seeing the quarry broadens your perspective from the maker's name alone to the connections between raw-material supply and the regional industry.
Reconsider the White Porcelain Body Through Its Raw Material
When viewing Arita ware after your visit, consider characteristics such as the white porcelain body, the way light passes through it, and the color development of the pigments in relation to the raw material.
Seeing the quarry remains and finished products on the same day makes it easier to appreciate the skill and time between natural stone and a finely crafted vessel.
Visitor Etiquette for Protecting the Historic Site
Some areas of Izumiyama Quarry are normally closed to visitors, and the fences and guidance are in place to protect both visitors and the historic site.
Even if you find information about a special opening or event, do not assume the area is always accessible. Prioritize information for the day of your visit and instructions from staff on site.
Do Not Cross Fences or No-Entry Signs
The footing around the quarry remains may be more unstable than it appears, so do not cross barriers or approach the slopes in search of a photo position.
If you are unsure where visitors may enter, do not proceed. It is safer to confirm with Arita Town or the tourist information center.
Do Not Take Porcelain Stone or Fragments Home
Do not pick up stones or fragments within the historic site as souvenirs. Leave them where they are.
Even when displayed materials may be touched, follow staff guidance and do not confuse them with items found within the historic site.
Keep Tripods and Photography Equipment Clear of Traffic
When using a tripod, do not block pedestrian or vehicle routes, and do not attach equipment to the fence.
The following table summarizes the basic conduct to follow on site.
| Situation | What to Do | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Observing the rock face | Use a telephoto view from the designated position | Crossing the fence |
| Recording information | Read the information boards in order | Touching signs or equipment |
| Commemorative photos | Take turns and keep it brief | Occupying the passage for a long time |
| Stones and fragments | Leave them in place | Picking them up and taking them home |
Learn More by Combining Your Visit with the History and Folklore Museum
The East Building of the Arita History and Folklore Museum (Arita-chō Rekishi Minzoku Shiryōkan Higashikan), adjacent to Izumiyama Quarry, opened in 1978 and introduces tools, documents, and other materials that convey the history of Arita ware.
First view the quarry and form questions, then look for answers at the museum. This order makes the meaning of the exhibits more concrete.
See the Work of People Through Craftsmen's Tags and Production Tools
The museum displays kiln-firing representative tags issued by the Sarayama Office (Sarayama Kaisho) during the Edo period, various craftsmen's tags, and tools and documents used to make Arita ware.
Comparing the scale of the quarry remains with the small tools and tags used by hand helps you consider the system through which the entire region managed and supported the ceramic industry.
Check Special Exhibitions and Opening Information
The museum holds special exhibitions and other programs, but opening days, exhibit contents, and viewing conditions can change, so check the museum's information.
If it is closed, do not enter the grounds without permission. Prepare a plan that lets you switch to viewing only the quarry.
Extend Your Learning to Nearby Ceramic-History Sites
If time allows, combine the Arita townscape, kiln sites, and facilities exhibiting ceramic culture. Visiting in the order of raw materials, production, distribution, and appreciation deepens your understanding.
Do not pack too much into 1 day. Check travel times and the public access status of each facility, and narrow down the theme you want to study.
The following table offers a guide to combinations based on your purpose.
| What You Want to Learn | Place to Combine | Focus of Observation |
|---|---|---|
| Raw materials | Izumiyama Quarry | Rock face and scale of mining |
| Work and management | History and Folklore Museum | Tools, tags, and documents |
| Production | Open kilns and workshops | Forming, decorating, and firing |
| Finished products | Ceramic-culture exhibition facilities | Body, patterns, and differences by period |
How to Get to Izumiyama Quarry and Prepare for Each Season
Izumiyama Quarry is located in Izumiyama, Arita Town, with parking available in front of the quarry and in front of Ishiba Shrine (Ishiba Jinja).
Parking capacity and traffic restrictions may change during events, so check traffic information before your visit.
Check the Route from Kami-Arita Station by Train
If using public transportation, compare the walking route from Kami-Arita Station, train frequency, and return times with a map and timetable in advance.
Consider sidewalk conditions and the weather, wear non-slip shoes, bring drinking water, and plan to finish traveling before dark.
Follow Directions to Designated Parking Areas When Driving
Use designated parking locations, such as those in front of the quarry and Ishiba Shrine, and do not park on the road or private property when they are full.
During the ceramic fair and autumn events, pedestrian-only roads, temporary parking, and fees may differ from normal, so always check that year's information.
Confirm the Area and Schedule for Special Openings
During the Arita Autumn Ceramic Festival (Arita Aki no Tōjiki Matsuri), some areas that are normally closed may be opened to visitors.
The accessible area and schedule vary by year and weather, so check the current year's information from Arita Town and the Arita Tourism Association (Arita Kankō Kyōkai) for the schedule, reception procedures, and permitted areas.
Conclusion: See the Mountain Behind Each Vessel at Izumiyama Quarry
Izumiyama Quarry is said to be where porcelain stone was discovered in the early 17th century. It supported approximately 400 years of Arita ware production, and part of the quarry was designated a National Historic Site in 1980.
By respecting the fences and no-entry areas, leaving stones in place, and observing the rock face from a safe location, you can learn about the scale of mining and the value of the historic site without causing damage.
Connecting the quarry with the adjacent History and Folklore Museum and Arita's ceramic culture reveals the raw materials, people, skills, and long history behind 1 vessel.
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