Marumo Takagi Toki Japanese Ceramics Houseware

Marumo Takagi started selling ceramic sake cups under the name "Marui Shoten" in 1887. Pottery has been produced in this area of southern Gifu prefecture for about 1,300 years. Mino, the area that encompasses Tajimi and neighboring Toki, is known in Japan as “Ceramic Valley,” and the traditional “Mino ware” produced by craftsmen there is officially registered as a Traditional Japanese Craft by the Japanese government. There are even two craftsmen in the region who are designated Living National Treasures!

Recently, Masaharu Takagi, the company’s fifth president, has been promoting Japanese pottery around the world. The company sells much of its dishware to restaurants, chefs, and even Japanese embassies around the globe! It specializes in making custom designs to suit the needs of its customers.
One of Marumo Takagi’s president’s more modern ideas came when he imagined the possibilities that could be created if pottery itself could visually express the temperature of the drink or food inside of it. Since much of Japanese food and drink is served at just the right temperature, eating or drinking it right away is important.

This led to the creation of the color-changing Warm and Cool series cups that feature scenes of Japan’s iconic four seasons. 

Fireworks Appear

The point that the company was most concerned about and struggled with was coloration. The color of the Cool series changes when the temperature is below 17°C and the Warm series when the temperature is above 45°C. To get the color to change, special paints are mixed and fired in a special kiln.

When creating each new design, prototypes are fired over and over again until the perfect color change is achieved. Whether enjoying a cold beverage in one of the Cool series cups or a hot beverage in the Warm series cups, the beautiful color change adds an extra element to the presentation that delights people of all ages.

Make Mealtimes More Exciting

The history of Japanese pottery began as far back as 15,000 years ago with Jomon pottery. Throughout its history, pottery has evolved into various shapes, sizes and colors depending on its use. Marumo Takagi was able to create a new innovation in Japanese pottery with their products.

Pour in your favorite drink and enjoy the beautiful transformation that will remind you of Japan and its four seasons.

Achievements 

1990 Tableware presented to the Imperial household for the coronation of the new Emperor

2020 New design-changing glasses introduced