Porcelain Hand-Painting Workshop with Hataman Touen
Experience the artistry of Nabeshima Ware in Los Angeles
An Exclusive Hands-On Workshop with Hataman Touen
Join us for a rare opportunity to engage with the artisans of Hataman Touen (畑萬陶苑)—masters of Nabeshima ware, the highly refined porcelain tradition once reserved for the Japanese shogunate and imperial court.
For the first time in its nearly 100-year history, Hataman Touen—one of ARJ Los Angeles’ most cherished dinnerware collections—will visit Los Angeles to host a special three-day workshop. We are honored to welcome Shuuji Hataishi, fifth-generation successor and president of Hataman Touen, who will teach and demonstrate the techniques of Nabeshima ware in person.
Founded in 1926 by Mantaro Hataishi as Manyo Kiln, Hataman Touen carries forward the 370-year legacy of Imari Nabeshima ware—a refined porcelain tradition rooted in Okawachiyama, “The Village of the Secret Kilns.” Known for its meticulous overglaze techniques and dignified beauty, the kiln blends classical craftsmanship with a modern sensibility. Its signature Iro-Nabeshima series features delicate brushwork, harmonious colors, and hand-painted motifs that embody the depth of Japanese aesthetics.
Now led by fifth-generation president Shuuji Hataishi, the brand continues to evolve through thoughtful design and global collaborations, including with Nike, New Balance, MAISON Paris, and others. Shuuji also serves on the faculty at Tokyo Zokei University and Arita College of Ceramics.
Each piece produced by Hataman Touen is the result of meticulous, labor-intensive craftsmanship—featuring delicate brushwork, traditional overglaze enamels, and multiple firings. Hataman Touen stands as a living embodiment of Japanese craftsmanship: elegant, precise, and deeply rooted in cultural heritage, yet always evolving.
About the Workshop
In this 80-minute session, you’ll have the opportunity to hand-paint a 9.5" (24cm) porcelain plate using traditional Nabeshima overglaze techniques. The plate base is the same as our Restaurant Maison 24 plate (valued at $150), but features a limited-edition sakura (cherry blossom) design exclusive to this workshop.
All sketching will be pre-applied, allowing you to focus on color and technique. After the session, your piece will be kiln-fired locally and shipped to your address in an original Hataman Touen gift box.
Early sign-ups are strongly encouraged. A small number of waitlist spots may be available in case of cancellations or no-shows.
Event Details
- Fri, Aug 22 - Sun, Aug 24, 2025
- 80-minute sessions between 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- ARJ Los Angeles – ROW DTLA or Santa Monica
What you’ll do
- Hand-paint a 9.5" (24cm) porcelain plate featuring a exclusive cherry blossom design - available only through this workshop. The base is the same as our Restaurant Maison 24 plate ($150), using traditional Nabeshima overglaze techniques.
What’s included
- A 24cm Restaurant Maison plate (retail $150 value), with original gift box
- All materials (brushes, paints)
- Kiln firing by ARJ
- Finished plate shipped to your address (enter at checkout)
Cancellation policy
Due to the limited seating, all sales are final and non refundable. If you notify us at least 72 hours before the workshop, we will provide a store credit for the registration amount to use toward ARJ merchandise purchases. To cancel and request a credit, email us at help@arj.la. Please note that we are unable to honor reschedule requests with less than 72 hours advance notice.
For any inquiry, please contact us help@arj.la or 213-608-7574.
