伊部(Inbe): Not an inn town at all but Okayama’s ceramic giant

Inbe appears to be the center of Bizen ceramic. It is very easy to figure out which stores and galleries are ceramic wares from my eyes. However, internationals who do not understand Japanese might not necessarily have access to this kind of information. Japan National Tourism Organization and Okayama prefecture seem to offer guided tours. 

Alright, let’s check out the overview. 

Going through downtown Inbe, it is impressive to see so many old houses although this is not even Ainoshuku unofficial inn town. Today more accommodations are available. 
The old houses although on the right side of the street is a ceramic art gallery. When you see words like ギャラリー(Gyararii: gallery) or 窯元(Kamamoto: potter or pottery) here, assume most of them have to do with Bizen ceramic wares and arts. 
Passing by another ceramic workshop/restaurant on the right side of the street. 
Another one on the right side. 
On the right side, there is a Shinto torii gate of Amatsu shrine which was established in 1411. 
Here ceramic galleries are on both sides. 
More galleries. 
And more. 

By the way, I did not put any specific ceramic galleries on my page. If you just want to buy potteries, go enjoy window shopping first then chat with the shopkeepers. But if you want to experience ceramics by joining one of workshops. I would contact Bizen tourist association or join one of guided tours. 

The access is very easy from JR Ako line Inbe station. 

We are making another brief stop at Kagato. 

References: 

Amatsu shrine. Okayamaken Jinjacho.(The original title: 天津神社　岡山県神社庁) https://www.okayama-jinjacho.or.jp/search/17847/ (Accessed in 6/4/2025. In Japanese)

Okayama Bizen. Japan National Tourism Association. https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/chugoku/okayama/bizen/ (Accessed in 6/4/2025)


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