I’ve always had a soft spot for working with clay. I usually use polymer clay, which is completely different from ceramic clay, but I’ve always loved how it feels between my fingers. Whether I’m making earrings, keychains, or miniature food items, I find the entire process calming and therapeutic.

That love for clay is probably why pottery has always been on my to-try list. I knew ceramics involved an entirely different process. Ceramic clay is heavier, used on a wheel, and goes through firing and glazing, unlike the small oven-bake projects I normally do. Still, the idea of creating something from scratch that could last forever really appealed to me.

So, when my husband surprised me with a pottery class booking for our 4th wedding anniversary, I was beyond thrilled. We both love trying new things together, and this felt like such a thoughtful way to celebrate. It combined creativity, quiet time, and a shared experience, which is all I could really ask for.

Finding the Pottery Clay Studio

We started looking online for studios that offered beginner-friendly pottery classes. There were a few in Tokyo and Chiba, but most required reservations in advance. We found one that looked charming and welcoming in Chiba, about 12 minutes away on foot from Nishi-Chiba Station. It offered weekend classes, accepted couples or solo participants, and allowed beginners to use the pottery wheel with full guidance. That sounded perfect to us.

We made a reservation for a Sunday afternoon, which turned out to be a great choice. The studio was easy to find, and when we arrived, there were already a few people waiting for the same class. Everyone looked excited and curious, which made me feel less nervous about being a beginner.

First Impressions

As soon as we entered, we were greeted by the staff. I believe they were the owners, and they had a warm, calm presence. They asked us to sit down while they prepared. The interior of the studio had a very cozy, artistic atmosphere. Shelves lined the walls with finished ceramic pieces like bowls, cups, plates, and even handmade accessories. The space smelled faintly like clay, and it instantly made me feel at home.

Before we could start, we had to fill out a basic form. It included our names, contact details, and the class time. They also confirmed that they accepted both cash and credit card, which made things easier for us.

The session cost 3,800 yen per person. That price included one hour of pottery wheel use, a demonstration, and help from the staff throughout the class.

Getting Ready for it

 

The staff handed us smocks to wear over our clothes to prevent them from getting dirty. Clay can be messy, so this was very much appreciated. After we suited up, we moved into a second room where the pottery wheels were already set up.

A staff member gave us a short demonstration. They explained how to center the clay on the wheel, how to keep our hands steady, and what motions to use when shaping the piece. Watching them work was incredibly relaxing. They made it look so easy, but I had a feeling it would take some practice to get it right.

They answered questions along the way and made sure we all understood what to do before letting us start. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, even for total beginners like us.

Our Turn To Work with Clay

 

Once the demonstration was over, we each received our own clay and sat down at a pottery wheel. I was both excited and a little nervous. I decided to make a miso soup bowl for my first piece. My husband went with a small sake cup. We both focused intensely, trying to follow what we had just learned.

At first, it was a bit difficult to get the clay perfectly centered. Mine kept wobbling, and I had to start over a few times. But once I got the hang of it, the experience became very calming. There was something incredibly soothing about feeling the wet clay move between my fingers, watching it slowly take shape as the wheel turned.

The staff walked around, checking in on each person and offering tips or help when needed. They were very supportive and even helped reshape a piece if it looked like it was about to collapse. Thanks to their guidance, I was able to finish my bowl and then move on to make a small plate and cup.

By the end of the class, we had made six pieces total. I made three, and my husband made the other three. It felt really rewarding to look at them all and know we had created something with our own hands.

Finishing and Clay Glazing Options

Once the class ended, the staff asked if we wanted to have our pieces fired and glazed. This process takes time, but it transforms the clay into usable ceramics. The cost depends on the size and number of items you choose to finish. We decided to keep four out of the six pieces and paid about 4,000 yen in total.

We were then shown several glaze colors and asked to choose which ones we wanted for our finished pieces. There were soft pastels, earth tones, and glossy finishes. I chose a light gray for my bowl, and my husband picked a deep blue for his cup. The staff noted everything down and explained the next steps.

Standard processing takes about three months. However, they offered an option to speed things up to one month for an extra fee. We chose the standard option. They also asked if we preferred to pick up our pieces or have them delivered. Delivery cost extra, so we decided to pick them up once ready. They will send us an email when the items are complete.

Why This Was So Special

I had expected the class to be fun, but I did not realize just how therapeutic it would be. The sound of the spinning wheel, the texture of the clay, and the focus it required helped me forget about everything else for a little while. I was fully present in that moment, creating something from nothing with my own hands.

Sharing that experience with my husband made it even more meaningful. We spent the afternoon laughing, concentrating, and encouraging each other. It was the kind of quiet quality time that I think every couple needs once in a while.

Celebrating our anniversary this way was one of the most memorable dates we’ve ever had.

Would I Recommend It? Absolutely!

 

If you are looking for a creative activity to do in Japan, whether solo or with a partner or friend, I highly recommend trying a pottery class. You do not need any experience, and most studios are very welcoming to beginners.

It is also a great way to connect with Japanese culture and appreciate the craftsmanship behind the tableware you see in shops and restaurants. Even if your bowl turns out lopsided or your cup is a little too thin, it is yours. And that makes it special.

I cannot wait to receive our finished pieces and add them to our kitchen shelf. They will always remind me of the quiet joy that day brought us, and how sometimes, doing something a little outside your routine can lead to the most heartwarming memories.

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