🗺️ Hamada Shoji Memorial Mashiko Reference Museum濱田庄司記念益子参考館

Hamada Shoji, who promotes "Mashiko-yaki" both domestically and internationally, has converted part of his home into a museum open for visits. In the expansive garden, there are five buildings including a storage house made of Ōya stone, a thatched-roof house, and a climbing kiln, each offering a unique atmosphere and displays. Hamada Shoji, who moved to Mashiko Town, is a ceramic artist and a holder of intangible cultural heritage (Living National Treasure). As a key figure in promoting the Mingei movement, he co-led this movement with Yanagi Soetsu and others, focusing on both material and spiritual aspects. In the Mashiko Reference Hall, works collected by Hamada as references for his own ceramic creations are displayed. These pieces come from various countries, including the UK, Okinawa, China, Korea, Taiwan, Pacific Islands, Europe, and Central America. To share the benefits and joys of these works with more people and provide a reference for many, it has been named the Reference Hall. In addition to a permanent exhibition showcasing Hamada's works and collections, it also features works from writers he has interacted with, such as Bernard Howell Leach and Kawakami Kanjirō. Two planned exhibitions are held each year. Additionally, the fourth hall contains Windsor chairs collected by Hamada for visitors to rest.

The collection features items selected based on the aesthetic standards of the late Mikihiro Tanaka, transcending both time and cultural boundaries. The building, relocated from a traditional house dating back to the late Edo period, is well worth a visit. It boasts a beautiful interior that perfectly blends Japanese and Western styles. In the expansive garden, visitors can enjoy the pleasure of strolling while admiring the seasonal flowers and plants. The museum shop offers painted postcards and related books for purchase.