Echizen pottery first began being produced in the late Heian period some 850 years ago with a focus on everyday items such as jugs (for water and grain) and mortars.
　Through Kitamaebune (northern-bound ships) trading on the Echizen Coast, Echizen pottery was sold from Hokkaido to Shimane, helping Echizen to become the largest production area for ceramics in the Hokuriku region.
　Echizen is considered one of the Six Old Kilns of Japan, and today, more than 90 potters in the area continue this traditional craft.