The start of 2024 is still a couple of months away.
But a traditional ceramics maker in southern Japan is hard at work producing figurines for the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac.
Amakusa ceramics are designated as one of Japan's traditional crafts.
One maker in Reihoku, Kumamoto Prefecture, started turning out miniature dragons in early September.
Locally procured stones are used in the process. The head potter says he found it difficult to come up with the design because dragons are imaginary creatures.
He said he expects the figurines' compact size will appeal to many people.
(Kiyama Kentaro / Uchidasarayamayaki)
“We are working hard and hope that everyone will stay positive as the New Year approaches.”
The pottery plans to produce about 3,000 of the dragons.
◆figurine （金属や陶器の）小さい像
But a traditional ceramics maker in southern Japan is hard at work producing figurines for the Year of the Dragon in the Chinese zodiac.
Amakusa ceramics are designated as one of Japan's traditional crafts.
One maker in Reihoku, Kumamoto Prefecture, started turning out miniature dragons in early September.
Locally procured stones are used in the process. The head potter says he found it difficult to come up with the design because dragons are imaginary creatures.
He said he expects the figurines' compact size will appeal to many people.
(Kiyama Kentaro / Uchidasarayamayaki)
“We are working hard and hope that everyone will stay positive as the New Year approaches.”
The pottery plans to produce about 3,000 of the dragons.
◆figurine （金属や陶器の）小さい像
◆Chinese zodiac十二支