Famed throughout Japan and around the world as Japan’s premier manufacturer of porcelain and china tableware, Noritake originated in Nagoya over 100 years ago and maintains an impressive museum and gallery in Nagoya called Noritake Garden.
A Brief History of Noritake and Its Founders
- Founded: 1904 as Nippon Toki Gomei Kaisha (now Noritake Co., Ltd.)
- Founder: Morimura Ichizaemon, a visionary entrepreneur from the late Edo period
- Early Export Business: Established Morimura Brothers in New York in 1876, one of Japan’s first private overseas trade businesses
- Global Expansion: Introduced Western-style ceramics after the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair
- Innovation: Began producing Japan’s first Western-style porcelain dinnerware in 1914
- Modern Impact: Grew into a globally recognized brand for fine tableware
The company began with Morimura Ichizaemon, who envisioned Japanese goods flourishing in global markets just as Japan began to open its boarders during the Meiji era. Rejecting government support in favor of self-reliance, he laid the foundations for one of Japan’s most respected trading companies. With the help of his half-brother Toyo and his brother-in-law Magobei Okura, who had an incredible eye for art, the company pivoted to ceramics and revolutionized the art form in Japan.
After studying European ceramic techniques at the Paris and Chicago World Fairs, the company sought to create “hard white porcelain,” a pristine, highly sought-after alternative to the bluish-gray tone common in Japanese ceramics at the time. Their breakthrough in 1914 with the first Japanese-made Western-style dinner set marked the birth of the Noritake brand, which soon became synonymous with quality and elegance around the world.
Exploring Noritake Garden
The 34,000 square-meter garden is divided into three zones—the Culture Zone, the Commercial Zone, and the Historical Zone—all of which are surrounded by beautifully manicured landscaping and lush greenery. All buildings on the grounds are wheelchair accessible.
The garden houses a gallery, shop, craft center, and several restaurants allowing visitors the opportunity to dine on Noritake chinaware, shop for their own collection, or simply soak up the scenery of the garden. In the craft center, visitors can decorate their own plate or mug.
Museum & Gallery
The Noritake Museum showcases the evolution of the brand’s craftsmanship—from early “fancy ware” exports to elegant porcelain dinner sets. A must-see artifact is the original ceramic plaque signed by the founders and buried beneath the factory cornerstone—a powerful symbol of the company's enduring mission.
Craft Center
Try your hand at decorating your own porcelain plate or mug! Perfect for both children and adults, this hands-on experience allows visitors to better appreciate the skill and artistry behind Noritake’s work. Unfortunately, they do not ship completed pieces internationally.
Shop & Dining
Browse exquisite Noritake tableware in the flagship shop or enjoy a meal served on Noritake china at one of the on-site restaurants. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can dine using the same porcelain admired by collectors worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Noritake known for?
Noritake is renowned worldwide for producing high-quality porcelain and tableware. It was the first company in Japan to manufacture Western-style dinner sets and remains a global leader in ceramic innovation.
Can I decorate my own porcelain at Noritake Garden?
Yes! The Craft Center offers workshops where you can paint and decorate your own plate or mug. A great activity for families and creative travelers. Unfortunately, they do not ship completed pieces internationally.
Is Noritake Garden wheelchair accessible?
Yes, all buildings and paths within Noritake Garden are fully wheelchair accessible.
What is the best time to visit Noritake Garden?
Spring and autumn are especially scenic, but the garden and indoor attractions are enjoyable year-round. Try to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Is there a place to shop for Noritake porcelain?
Yes! The on-site Noritake shop features a wide range of products, from daily-use tableware to collector’s items.
