Readings

The Guardian recently published a long feature titled “Endo dreams of sushi: a trip around Japan with one of the world's greatest chefs”. The article is a long feature following the journey of Endo Kazutoshi, the chef of the Michelin-starred sushi restaurant Endo at the Rotunda in London. After his restaurant in London suffered a devastating fire in 2025, Endo returned to Japan and began a journey to revisit the people who support sushi behind the scenes. The story introduces many individuals connected to sushi culture — rice growers, vinegar makers, fish traders, and ceramic artisans — highlighting the many hands behind sushi culture. During this journey, the article mentions Endo’s visit to Studio1156 when he stopped in Fukuoka. We at Studio1156 have had the privilege of working with Endo from the very early stages of launching Endo at the Rotunda. Looking back, we feel that we too have grown together, even if only in a small way. Along the way, we also experienced the difficult years of the pandemic together, both in Japan and the UK. When the restaurant was unable to open for regular service, Endo contacted us from London to say that they would begin offering takeaway. We still remember sending bento boxes from Japan several times for their takeaway service — it does not feel so long ago. Our founder and Endo also visited many artisans and kilns in Karatsu, Arita and Imari together, commissioning custom-made tableware. In fact, it often seemed that they spent more time talking and traveling together than discussing the objects themselves. Yet those shared experiences are perhaps what allowed our relationship to continue until today, and what helps shape the craftsmanship Endo seeks. Reading this article reminded us of how we first met Endo and the many moments since then. We are grateful for the opportunity to reflect on those memories. We are truly honored that Studio1156 is mentioned in an article introducing Japanese food culture and craftsmanship to readers around the world. Our company name, Qusavi, comes from the Japanese word kusabi, meaning a wedge — something that connects and holds things together. In many ways, it reflects what we hope to do: connect Japanese makers with the people who use and appreciate their work. If you are interested, please take a look at the article below! Read the article

What is 1616 / arita japan? 1616 / arita japan is a brand series of Arita ware that began with Teruhiro Yanagihara as creative director, in collaboration with the Dutch designer unit Scholten & Baijings. Until recently, it was not uncommon to hear comments about Arita ware such as: "Looks like something my grandmother would have.""Pieces with many patterns.""Images of vases and decorative plates." However, the birth of 1616 / arita japan represents a series that clearly shows a different direction from the general impression of Arita ware. Arita Town in Saga Prefecture, the home of Arita ware, is where Ri Sanpei first fired porcelain in Japan in 1616. Within this region, which boasts a history of over 400 years, Arita ware has fostered a remarkably wide range of expressions. Sometsuke, Hakuji, Akae, Kinrande, Kakiemon style. The fact that Arita ware cannot be defined by a single style is, in itself, a characteristic of Arita ware. Amongst this diversity, 1616 / arita japan stands apart from traditional Arita ware by minimizing decoration and prioritizing form, negative space, and lines. Design with Minimal Decoration A defining feature of 1616 / arita japan is its simple aesthetic, which has been stripped of as much ornamentation as possible. Form, negative space, and lines themselves take center stage. Some series even feature an intentionally unglazed finish, quietly updating the conventional image of Arita ware. The "Palace" Series, Born from Hotel Use The most popular item in the 1616/arita japan collection, the "Palace Plate," was created as Arita ware specifically for the Palace Hotel Tokyo, a renowned and prestigious Japanese hotel that reopened in 2012. It possesses a simple elegance, yet is also affordable enough for everyday use, making it a magical vessel that beautifully presents whatever is served on it. Additionally, I believe that the series' unique characteristics include oven-safe options and the use of materials resistant to oil stains, demonstrating a strong emphasis on practicality beyond its aesthetic appeal. Not "New," but Rather "Another Option" Rather than changing Arita ware, 1616 / arita japan feels like it created a new option within Arita ware. There is also flamboyant Arita ware.There are also traditional styles that have been passed down since the Edo period. Meanwhile, this series quietly demonstrates that "such simple expressions are also a form of Arita ware." Those who already have a certain image of Arita ware may especially enjoy a new perspective, realizing, "Oh, there's this kind of Arita ware too." For more details on the design and series composition of 1616 / arita japan, please visit their official website. We encourage those interested to take a look. → 1616 / arita japan Official Website

Urushi-ware, also known as lacquerware, primarily refers to crafts made by applying urushi (lacquer) to a wooden base.

In this article, Studio1156, a specialty tableware store, will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of whether pottery and porcelain can be used in a dishwasher, precautions for use, tips for safe use, common misconceptions, and knowledge for extending the life of your dishes.

"Yachimun" is the Okinawan dialect word for "pottery." Characterized by its overall warm, plump form, yachimun's charm also lies in its folk-art like simplicity, seen in patterns such as finger-drawn designs (yubigaki), arabesques, and fish motifs.

Kutani ware is a general term for ceramics fired in the southern part of Ishikawa Prefecture, mainly in Kanazawa, Komatsu, and Kaga.

To conclude, porcelain and ceramics are fine with 100°C water poured into them.

"I want to buy HASAMI PORCELAIN as cheaply as possible.""I heard I can buy it at an outlet, but where?""Amazon and Rakuten sell it cheaply, but I'm worried if it's authentic..." Do you have such concerns?HASAMI PORCELAIN is one of the most popular brands of Hasami ware. Its sophisticated design and ease of use have garnered many fans both in Japan and abroad, but many people probably also want to get it at a slightly better price. In this article, we will explain: Information about "Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival" where you can buy outlet items How to use authorized retailers for those who cannot attend the ceramic fair Precautions when purchasing on Amazon, Rakuten, etc. from the perspective of the authorized retailer "Studio1156." By reading this article, you will be able to "safely and affordably purchase" HASAMI PORCELAIN outlet items. Looking for HASAMI PORCELAIN outlet items? For those looking to get HASAMI PORCELAIN outlet items at a great price, visiting the "Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival," held annually during Golden Week in Hasami Town, Nagasaki Prefecture, is highly recommended. Products from Hasami ware brands, including HASAMI PORCELAIN, are sold at more affordable prices than usual.Many "B-grade" items with slight glaze irregularities or small scratches during the manufacturing process are available, but their quality is perfectly fine for everyday use. The ability to pick and choose items in person is also a major attraction. Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival 2025 Event Outline The "Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival" in 2025 was held on the following dates: Dates: April 29 (Tue, holiday) to May 5 (Mon, holiday), 2025 Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Venue: "Yakimono Park" and "Nishino-hara" area in Hasami Town, Higashisonogi District, Nagasaki Prefecture Parking: All paid (700 yen per day) The entire ceramic fair features over 100 kilns and shops, offering a wide range of products from standard series to limited-edition items. At the HASAMI PORCELAIN booth, in addition to standard plates and bowls, outlet items such as display pieces or those with slight color variations may be sold at special prices. The latest event information and exhibitor details are updated regularly on the organizer's official website. Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival Official Website (2025 Event Outline) Future Events While the dates for 2026 and beyond have not yet been announced, it is expected to be held during Golden Week (late April to early May) as in previous years. Therefore, if you couldn't make it in 2025, it's recommended to plan your visit for the next long holiday.Although it's held only once a year, the ceramic fair offers the joy of choosing in person, discovering hidden gems, and interacting with the creators. It's an event that we highly recommend for anyone who wants to see and choose outlet items directly or is a fan of HASAMI PORCELAIN. For those who cannot attend the Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival or want to purchase immediately Since the Nishino-hara Ceramic Festival has fixed dates and locations, many people may think, "I want to buy it now" or "I can't go to the venue."Also, since it's held only once a year, if you miss the timing, you'll have to wait a year for the next opportunity. Therefore, for those who cannot attend the ceramic fair or want to purchase regardless of the season, purchasing from an authorized retailer is recommended.To confidently purchase HASAMI PORCELAIN, the most reliable and secure method is to buy from the "list of authorized retailers" introduced on the official website. Our store, Studio1156, is one such authorized retailer, carrying only genuine products that meet the manufacturer's quality standards.Therefore, we do not carry outlet items.All products are sourced through official channels, ensuring peace of mind regarding quality. At our physical store in Haruyoshi, Fukuoka City, you can actually pick up and choose items, and you can also purchase from anywhere in the country through our online shop.If you cannot attend the ceramic fair or "want to purchase genuine products with confidence," please consider using Studio1156. The Studio1156 online shop allows you to purchase genuine HASAMI PORCELAIN from anywhere in the country. You can take your time to choose your favorite tableware from a wide range of products from the comfort of your home. View HASAMI PORCELAIN Product List If you can visit our physical store, you can choose items by actually holding them in your hands at our store in Haruyoshi, Fukuoka. We are the only place in Fukuoka where you can see all types of HASAMI PORCELAIN. Please experience the texture and feel of HASAMI PORCELAIN at our store. 📍Studio1156 Physical Store Information 1-15-6 Haruyoshi, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture 810-0003 ＊View on Google Maps Phone: 092-707-1103 Hours: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM Closed: Based on business calendar ＊Studio1156 Instagram Account Access: 5-minute walk from Watanabe-dori Station on the Fukuoka City Subway Nanakuma Line *No parking available. If coming by car, please use nearby coin parking. Directions to the store are provided on this page What to watch out for when buying on Amazon, Rakuten, etc. Due to its popularity, HASAMI PORCELAIN is widely listed on Amazon, Rakuten, flea market sites, and other platforms. However, when purchasing, it's crucial to be aware of counterfeit and parallel import products. Be cautious of items sold at extremely low prices or from shops with unclear sellers.In reality, even if it's labeled "HASAMI PORCELAIN," counterfeit products with different logo stamp positions or textures are circulating. Such products may be prone to breakage or have different color tones than the original, with varying quality. To avoid counterfeits, always check if the seller is official or an authorized retailer.Also, check if there's a return guarantee and if the product description includes the country of manufacture and seller information. For more details, please refer to the related article, "Beware Before Buying HASAMI PORCELAIN Cheaply! How to Avoid Counterfeits and Replicas and Safely Buy the Authentic Product."