In our home, Mino ware isn’t something we display — it’s something we live with.
From rice bowls in the morning to ramen bowls at night, we use it every single day.
I love changing tableware depending on the season. Even a simple meal feels different when the dish changes. Choosing which bowl or plate to use has become one of my favorite small daily joys.
If you’re curious about authentic Japanese pottery but don’t know where to start, Mino ware might be the perfect first step.
What Is Mino Ware?
Mino ware is traditional Japanese pottery produced in Gifu Prefecture.
With a history of over 1,300 years, it represents a large portion of Japan’s ceramic production today.
What makes Mino ware special is its incredible variety. There isn’t just one “Mino style.” You’ll find modern minimalist designs, rustic earthy textures, glossy finishes, and everything in between.
And most importantly — it’s made to be used.
Why Mino Ware Is So Popular in Japan
In Japan, Mino ware is everywhere. And there’s a reason for that.
- Affordable and accessible
- Durable for daily use
- Available in countless sizes and designs
- Works beautifully with both Japanese and Western cuisine
It’s beautiful, but never intimidating.
How We Use Mino Ware in Our Home
Here’s what our everyday table looks like.
Rice Bowls (Chawan)
We use standard-sized rice bowls for rice almost every day.
But they’re also perfect for cereal, yogurt, or small salads.
This is the type of bowl I reach for every morning without even thinking.
They feel natural in your hands — not too heavy, not too light.
👉 Check price on Amazon
Rice bowls are an essential part of the Japanese table.
Since we use them every single day, I like choosing ones that are cute and pleasant to look at. The bowl in the photo is one I use during cherry blossom season!
Donburi Bowls (Small & Large)
We have both small and large donburi bowls.
Small size:
Perfect for gyudon, katsu-don, or seafood rice bowls.
Large size:
Ideal for ramen and udon — and surprisingly great for pasta or hearty soups too.
The larger bowls make comfort food feel extra comforting.
I found the same small donburi bowl we use at home on Amazon!
If you’d like to match with us, be sure to check it out.
👉 See available options on Amazon
Plates (Small, Medium, Large – Shallow & Deep)
This is where Mino ware really shines.
| Small plates | Tofu, pickles, snacks. |
| Medium plates | Side dishes, grilled fish, salads. |
| Large plates | Pasta, curry, or shared dishes. |
I especially love that Mino ware plates come in different depths — shallow for grilled dishes, deeper for saucy meals.
We own round plates, oval plates, thicker ones, thinner ones. Choosing which one to use is honestly part of the fun.
👉 Browse Mino ware plates here
Kobachi (Small Bowls)
These small bowls are perfect for simmered dishes, spinach ohitashi, or even desserts like anmitsu.
They make even simple food feel elegant.
Kobachi bowls are incredibly convenient.
They’re perfect for side dishes and desserts, and they also work beautifully as small sharing plates.
👉 Explore small Mino bowls
Yunomi (Tea Cups)
I use my yunomi daily for green tea.
The texture feels warm and comforting in your hands.
It turns an ordinary tea break into a quiet moment.
👉 View Mino ware tea cups
Small Condiment Dishes
Even our condiments are served in small Mino ware dishes — citrus vinegar, yuzu miso, or dipping sauces.
It may sound like a small detail, but it makes everyday meals feel thoughtfully prepared.
👉 See small serving dishes
Why Mino Ware Is the Perfect First Japanese Pottery
If you’re interested in authentic Japanese ceramics but feel unsure where to begin, Mino ware is the easiest entry point.
It’s:
- Authentic
- Practical
- Affordable
- Beautiful without being fragile
- Easy to mix with Western dining styles
Once you start using real Japanese tableware, you may never want to go back to plain dishes.
If you’d like to bring a touch of Japan into your everyday meals, Mino ware is a wonderful and accessible place to begin.
Mino ware is not only practical but also affordable.
With so many styles and designs to choose from, I highly recommend giving it a try.
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