Han-yō (domain kilns) are

Han-yō (domain kilns) refers to kilns owned and managed by each domain (daimyō family) in Japan during the Edo period.

Unlike typical private kilns, they were primarily operated to produce items for the use of the lord and his family, as well as tribute items for the shogunate and the imperial court.

In particular, the official kiln (goyō-gama) of the Nabeshima domain did not pursue profit. Instead, it spared no expense in employing the finest techniques and materials, producing perfect works without any compromise. Consequently, the works produced boasted extremely high quality and artistry, circulating only among a select few.

Han-yō were not merely production centers for ceramics; they were important entities that showcased the authority and financial power of the domain.