Noritake Garden sits on the former factory grounds of Noritake, the Japanese porcelain maker, a short walk north of Nagoya Station. The garden has lawns, a planted area of trees and water, and six old kiln chimneys from the 1930s. Inside the complex, a museum shows antique Noritake vases, jars and dishes, and a craft centre lets you paint or glaze your own piece. The grounds are free to walk, so the garden suits a short stop as well as a longer afternoon in the city.
From a 1876 start to the factory site
The Noritake company started in 1876, when two brothers wanted to expand Japan's trade with Western markets. The company has a long history in Nagoya, and its factory began producing fine tableware in the city in 1904.
The garden was built on the grounds of the former factory, next to the company's head office, to mark the company's 100th anniversary. Production at the site eventually ended, and the grounds were turned into a park with a craft centre, a museum, a restaurant and shops.
What the grounds hold
The garden combines lawns with a planted area of trees, plants and water. Six chimneys from old kilns, built in the 1930s, still stand on the site. The Kiln Wall is made from old brick foundations and is decorated with plates bearing the names of people who donated to the garden.
The red-brick warehouses on the site are listed. Old brick walls, green lawns, and a fountain in the middle of the park make the grounds a good place for photographs. The cherry trees are one of the best-known sights, and the garden also has seasonal flowers throughout the year.
Inside the museum and craft centre
The Welcome Center introduces the history and technology of Noritake. The museum runs across four floors and shows how the tableware is made, along with antique vases, jars and dishes from the company's past. A factory tour is also available.
In the craft centre, you can paint your own ceramic piece or glaze one, and you can watch craftspeople at work. Visitors who want to make something should plan this as part of their visit, since it is the most hands-on part of the site.
Shopping and eating
The shop carries a wide range of products, from high-quality ceramic wares to lifestyle outlet items. The bargain area stocks pieces made outside Japan, and the Ghibli editions are made in Japan.
The Kiln restaurant serves a French multi-course meal on Noritake tableware. The restaurant also offers afternoon tea, which suits a relaxed break between sightseeing stops.
Planning the visit
Noritake Garden is a short walk north of Nagoya Station, about 15 minutes on foot. The garden is free to enter, while the museum and gallery may charge fees.
Weekdays are the easiest time to visit, because weekends and holidays draw bigger crowds. Allow a few hours if you plan to combine the museum, a craft session and a meal.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
The gardens are free to walk around. The museum and gallery may charge a fee.
How do I get to Noritake Garden?
It is a brisk walk of about 15 minutes north of Nagoya Station.
Can I paint my own ceramics there?
Yes. The craft centre lets visitors paint or glaze their own piece.
When is the best time to visit?
Weekdays are quieter than weekends and holidays.
Is there somewhere to eat on site?
The Kiln restaurant serves a French multi-course meal on Noritake tableware, and it also offers afternoon tea.
