Every spring, the quiet town of Arita in Kyushu transforms into a ceramic lover’s dream. We flew in for the annual Arita Porcelain Festival — a week-long celebration of centuries-old pottery traditions, small-batch makers, and all things crafted by hand.

One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the headquarters of 1616 / arita japan. Their space felt like an extension of their ceramics — quiet, structured, and full of intention.

From incense holders to delicate tea cups and even a ceramic pendant light, each find felt intentional and beautifully unique. Everything was packed in newspaper by hand — quiet gestures that added even more meaning to every piece.

📍 Arita, Japan — April 2025
Porcelain, light, and memory, carried home to JDV.