Ceramics Park MINO is a multifunctional complex in Tajimi City, Gifu Prefecture, dedicated to ceramics and serving as a center for industrial development, cultural promotion, and community revitalization.
The complex was designed by the internationally renowned architect Arata Isozaki. Located in the hilly eastern part of Tajimi City, the facility has been carefully integrated into the natural landscape, harmonizing with the surrounding valleys and ridges. Its design takes environmental conservation into account, with measures to protect the area’s valuable ecosystems.
One of the building’s most distinctive features is its innovative earthquake-resistant structure. The museum exhibition galleries incorporate the world’s first translational pendulum seismic isolation system for a suspended structure, designed to protect important artworks from earthquakes and other natural disasters.
The complex also makes extensive use of locally produced ceramic materials, including tiles and bricks, reflecting the region’s long tradition of ceramic craftsmanship.
The exhibition galleries are suspended approximately five meters below the ceiling by 32 steel arms. This unique structure is designed to keep the galleries stable even when the building experiences significant movement during an earthquake, helping protect the artworks displayed inside.
The Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu is the centerpiece of Ceramics Park MINO. Dedicated to contemporary ceramics, the museum collects modern and contemporary ceramic works from Japan and around the world, without limiting its focus to any particular country or region.
Through a wide variety of exhibitions, the museum introduces visitors to the artistic possibilities of ceramics and the diversity of contemporary ceramic expression. It also works to build international and regional networks through ceramics and to strengthen connections with the local community.
The complex offers a variety of facilities for art, culture, events, conferences, and hands-on experiences related to ceramics.
Museum of Modern Ceramic Art, Gifu: A museum featuring modern and contemporary ceramic art from Japan and overseas.
Museum Shop: A shop where visitors can browse items related to ceramics and the museum.
Oribe Square: An open area within the complex.
Exhibition Hall: A venue for exhibitions and displays.
Shop and Gallery: A space for ceramic-related products and artistic works.
International Conference Hall: A venue for international conferences and professional gatherings.
Event Hall: A multipurpose space for events and various programs.
Small Meeting Rooms: Rooms suitable for meetings and smaller gatherings.
Cascade Plaza: An open space within the complex.
Rooftop Plaza: An outdoor area where visitors can enjoy the surroundings.
Observation Deck: A place to take in views of the surrounding landscape.
To-sakukan Ceramic Workshop: A facility where visitors can experience pottery making and enjoy working with clay.
Tea Room: A traditional Japanese-style space for experiencing aspects of Japanese tea culture.
Restaurant: A dining facility where visitors can take a break during their visit.
Ceramics Park MINO brings together the region’s centuries-old ceramic tradition and contemporary artistic innovation. With its modern architecture, advanced earthquake-protection technology, museum exhibitions, and pottery-making experiences, it offers visitors an opportunity to explore the many dimensions of ceramics in one location.
Whether you are interested in Japanese traditional crafts, contemporary art, architecture, or hands-on cultural activities, Ceramics Park MINO provides an engaging introduction to the world of Mino ware, one of Japan’s best-known ceramic traditions.