Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, all of our tableware is truly made in Japan. At Made In Japan, we take pride in sourcing our products directly from local artisans in Japan, with a special focus on the historic Mino region. For over 30 years, we’ve worked closely with these talented craftspeople. Our aim has always been that each item reflects the rich tradition and unmatched craftsmanship that Japanese ceramics are renowned for.

The Mino region is famous for producing Mino ware, or Minoyaki, one of Japan's oldest and most esteemed pottery styles. With a history that spans over 1,300 years, Mino ware continues to be crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations. 

When you purchase our Japanese plates, bowls, or other tableware, you are taking home a piece of Japan’s cultural heritage. Each item is meticulously crafted to reflect the timeless elegance and functionality. From minimalist aesthetics to intricately detailed patterns, our tableware embodies the artistry and dedication of Japan’s master potters.

Discover more of our exclusive collection here.

Yes, nearly all (99.9%) of our Japanese tableware is microwave safe, which makes our products perfect for modern, everyday use. Our tableware is designed in a way so that quality and practicality go hand in hand. This means you can easily reheat your meals or warm up your drinks using our plates, bowls, or mugs without worrying about damaging them.

However, certain signature items in our collection may not be suitable for microwave use. Specifically, we advise caution with any pieces that feature glass 'crackle' finishes or metallic glazes. While being absolutely stunning pieces, these designs may react negatively to the intense heat of the microwave. This could potentially cause cracking or discoloration over time.

We recommend checking the care instructions for each piece before use. If you’re in doubt, feel free to reach out to us. We're always here to help you make the best choice for your home.

Yes, the majority of our Japanese tableware (99%) is compatible with both domestic and industrial dishwasher. This means you can enjoy the beauty of authentic Mino ceramics without the hassle of hand washing. 

Most pieces are coated with durable glazes that can withstand frequent washing. This characteristic has made them perfect for everyday use in both home kitchens and professional settings.

For added peace of mind, we recommend placing your tableware on the top shelf of your dishwasher. This is an added level of care that helps to protect delicate edges and intricate designs from the wear and tear of intense water pressure. 

There are some exceptions, however. Pieces that are made with hand-painted details, delicate glazes, or metallic accents, may need extra care. Gentle hand washing is the best approach for cleaning these pieces so you can make sure they remain as stunning as the day you bought them. 

Crackle glaze is a type of glazing that results in a stunning “cracked glass” appearance. Items that are adorned with this glaze call for a little extra care to keep them looking their best. Here are some simple tips to help you maintain these pieces:

• Avoid using in the microwave: The heat from the microwave can cause the cracks in the glaze to expand. And we don't want that because it could make your piece more susceptible to stains from food and oil, and even bacteria buildup.
• Handwash them: Of course it's possible to use a dishwasher. However, crackle glaze items are a bit more fragile than your regular glazes. If you still choose to use a dishwasher, stack them carefully and choose a gentle cycle. To be on the safe side, however, we usually recommend hand washing with a mild detergent in warm water, and not hot water, to keep them in best shape.

Try not to soak for long periods: Leaving your crackle glaze items submerged in water for too long can cause it to absorb water. This again might cause expansion of the inner layers. In worse cases, this also could create a breeding ground for mold to grow inside the cracks. A quick wash and dry is the best way to care for these delicate and beautiful pieces.

We stand by the quality of our products, but there are some things that happen naturally over time. These occurrences are NOT covered by the warranty. Here’s what’s included and what’s not:

• Cracks and chips: Small cracks and chips might appear over time, especially with frequent use. This is normal wear and tear unless there’s an obvious defect.
• Discoloration: Your ceramics might change color a bit over the years. This is a natural aging process and happens more often to pieces that are exposed to heat or sunlight.
• Glaze variations: Handmade ceramics can have small differences in glaze, color, or texture. These unique details are part of what makes artisanal!
• Improper care: Damage from things like using harsh detergents, microwaving non-microwave-safe items is not included in the warranty. Additionally, exposing ceramics to rapid temperature changes isn’t covered.

Order issues? Just let us know!

While unlikely, things can get mixed up on rare occassions. If there’s an issue with your order, for example missing an item or containing the wrong one, let us know within 7 days. Once we have received your communication. we’ll sort it out quickly.

For more details about our full warranty details, check out our guide here.

No worries! If you’re having trouble finding what you’re looking for, just send us an email at customerservice@mij.com.au and we’ll be happy to help. Whether it’s a product question or something else, we’ll do our best to get you sorted quickly!

First off, we're really sorry if that happens. It’s super rare, but we’re here to make it right! Please follow the return process:

• Log in to your account. 
  Use the email and password you used when making your purchase.
• Click on your account in the top right corner. And find your order. 
• Under "Order History," find the order with the product.
• Proceed the return process.
• Our customers service will contact you soon. To speed up the process please, prepare a clear photo of the broken pieces.

If the item is no longer in stock, we’ll work with you to find a great alternative. Just remember to get in touch within 7 days of receiving your order, and we’ll take care of the rest!

Absolutely! At Made In Japan, we're all about being mindful of the environment. We have embraced this philosophy from the initial sourcing up to packaging and delivering the product in your hands. We reuse and recycle as much as possible because we know it makes a difference.

We recycle all the newspaper, cardboard packaging, and plastic packing crates that come from Japan. In fact, the newspaper we use for packing comes directly from the Tajimi area where our beautiful Japanese ceramics are produced!

Our bubble wrap is made from recycled soft plastics and is designed to break down within 18-24 months in a landfill. Isn’t that much better for the planet than traditional bubble wrap?

As for those fun packing beans? They’re biodegradable and made from corn and potato starches, so they break down quickly in compost or even in water without leaving any nasty chemicals behind. Plus, they’ve already had a previous life; we happily accept them from a local bookshop!

We take pride in our efforts to reduce waste and keep our packaging as eco-friendly as possible. So, you can make sure you are getting your stunning Japanese tableware while feeling good knowing you're supporting sustainable practices.

Shipping is calculated on volume, weight and the delivery location. The cost will be visible before you will be required to make payment. We work with trusted shipping companies to ensure minimum breakage and speed delivery while keeping shipping costs low.

Yes, we do! When shopping online, you can choose our convenient Click and Collect option from our Mornington warehouse in Victoria. If you’re in the area, this is the perfect option for a quick and easy shopping experience. This way, you can save on delivery and grab your Japanese plates, bowls, or other tableware directly from us.

Here’s how it works:

• At checkout, you’ll need to select the ‘Pick up Mornington’ option to avoid any unnecessary shipping fees. 
• Even if you’re opting for Click and Collect, we still require you to provide a valid street address when placing your order. Don’t worry, you won’t be charged for delivery as long as you’ve selected the correct pickup option!

Once your order is ready for collection, we’ll notify you, and you can come by the warehouse at your convenience to pick up your items. It’s a fast, simple, and cost-effective way to get your hands on your new Made In Japan products without having to wait for shipping!

We know you’re excited to get your hands on your Made In Japan goodies, and we do our best to get them to you fast! Once we process your order during business hours, we’ll pack it up and ship it out within 24-48 hours.

Now, as much as we’d love to offer express delivery, it’s not something we can do right now. However, our standard shipping is reliable, and most orders arrive within 2 to 8 business days. This, of course, depends on where you’re located.

A couple of things to keep in mind:

• Our couriers don’t deliver on weekends or public holidays, so if you order around Christmas, Easter, or other holidays, there might be a slight delay. A good practice is to place your order a couple of weeks ahead of time if it’s going to be a gift.
• We’ll keep you updated along the way so you know when your Japanese tableware is on its way!

At Made In Japan, we make sure your order gets to you quickly using trusted courier services. Because we use couriers, we can’t deliver to PO boxes. So please make sure to provide a street address when placing your order.

Here’s what you can expect with shipping:

• Delivery days: Your order will be delivered on weekdays only, from Monday to Friday, between 8 am and 6 pm. The couriers operate during regular business hours, so you’ll need to be available during that window.
• No specific delivery times: While we work with efficient couriers, they don’t offer a specific time for delivery. This means your Japanese tableware could arrive at any time during the day, so make sure someone’s available to receive it.

We’ll do our best to make sure your order gets to you in the most convenient manner.

Remember, delivery is only available during business hours, and couriers don’t operate on weekends or public holidays. If you place your order around busy times like Christmas or other holidays, there might be a slight delay. Either way, we'll keep you updated on the status of your delivery so you know when your beautiful Japanese ceramics are on their way!

We understand that sometimes you might change your mind, and we want to make the process as smooth as possible. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, you can return the product to us within 14 days of the original purchase date. We’ll gladly issue a store credit for the full purchase price, as long as the item is in its unused, original condition and still re-saleable.

Inform about your return:

• Log in to your account. Use the email and password you used when making your purchase.
• Find your order. Click on your account in the top right corner.
• Under "Order History," find the order with the product.
• Proceed the return process.
• Our customers service will contact you soon.

Return the products:

• By post: If you’re mailing your return, please pack the item carefully to make sure it arrives in perfect condition. Postal charges for returns are non-refundable, and any exchanges will require additional postage. Don’t forget to include your name and order number so we can process your return as soon as we receive it.
• In-store or warehouse: If it’s more convenient, you can drop your item off at one of our Made In Japan stores or our warehouse. We’ll handle the rest!

Please note that refunds will only be given if the product is faulty or was wrongly described. Otherwise, your return will result in store credit for future purchases, so you can find something that’s a better fit for you!

We want you to love your Japanese tableware and have a hassle-free shopping experience, so if there’s anything else we can do to help, just let us know. 

Not necessarily! If you're not home when the courier arrives with your Made In Japan order, they'll leave a note or a calling card. This card will have all the details you need to contact the courier and arrange a convenient re-delivery time.

The courier will attempt to deliver your order twice. If you're not home for both attempts and you don’t get in touch with the courier, or if they can’t reach you, the package might be returned to us.

If your order does get sent back to us, we’ll reach out to you to figure out the next step. You can either:

• Arrange for another delivery (which will come with an additional shipping cost), or;
• Request a refund for the value of the order, minus any delivery charges that have already been incurred.

We do our best to make sure your Japanese tableware arrives smoothly, so if you won’t be home during delivery, just keep an eye out for that calling card and contact the courier as soon as possible to avoid any extra charges or delays!

If you’ve made a mistake with your order and need to update shipping details or make adjustments to the items, just contact us as soon as possible at warehouse@mij.com.au.

Whether it’s the wrong address, the wrong product, or a simple stock adjustment, let us know what changes you need, and we’ll do our best to fix it before your order is packed and shipped. We’re here to help make sure you get exactly what you need!

Yes, you can! If there’s a specific item you’ve got your eye on that’s currently out of stock, we can help you stay in the loop. Just click on "Notify me when available" and enter your email address.

As soon as it’s back in stock, we’ll notify you right away so you can place your order and grab your favorite Made In Japan piece!

Do you love to scrape every last bite off your plate? Or do you keep them safe and sound behind a display cabinet? How much you use a plate, bowl or any other tableware can make a difference in its wear and tear. Even the toughest tableware can develop the occasional scuff or scratch over time. However, these marks don’t mean the end of your favorite Japanese plateware. With a little of care, you can restore your tableware to its original beauty.

Let’s see how to tackle those marks.

Solution for lighter scuffs

Your best bet is to start with something gentle. There’s a good chance you already have the solution in your pantry. For instance, baking soda or cream of tartar.

• Sprinkle the baking soda or cream of tartar on the scuffed area.
• Add a few drops of water to create a paste.
• Gently rub the mixture onto the scuff with a damp dishcloth. Let it sit for a couple of minutes and then rinse thoroughly.

Solution for stubborn stains and darker scuffs

If you’re dealing with deeper marks, you’ll need something a little stronger:

• Use a cream cleanser with abrasive particles (like Jif) or a powder abrasive that contains oxalic acid (such as Bon Ami or Ajax without bleach).
• For powder cleaners, mix with a few drops of water to create a paste and apply it as er instructions.

How to properly clean an item when removing scuffs

Step 1: Generously sprinkle or squirt your chosen cleaner over the surface of the dish.

Step 2: Use a damp dishcloth to gently scrub the surface, working the cleaner or paste into the scuffed area.

Step 3: Let it sit for a minute or two to work its magic.

Step 4: Scrub the marks away. Tougher scuffs may require a little more elbow grease!

Step 5: Once the marks are gone, wash the dish with your regular detergent, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely.

These simple steps help you keep your Made In Japan tableware looking fresh and scuff-free for years to come!

We receive regular shipments of our beautiful Japanese tableware about every three weeks directly from Japan. This means we're always working to keep your favorite pieces in stock and add exciting new items.

That said, sometimes, there can be a few bumps in the road (like shipping delays or other unforeseen logistical challenges). We do our best to minimize those. If an item you're interested in is currently out of stock, we've made it easier than ever to stay updated! 

On the product page, when a product is out of stock, the "Add to cart" button will appear greyed out, and you'll see a "Notify me when available" button just below it. Simply click on this button and enter your email address. The moment the product is back in stock, you'll receive an immediate email notification!

You can also always reach out to our customer service team or join our email list for updates on new arrivals and restocks. This way, you'll never miss out on the latest Made In Japan pieces!

If you want to see our full range of Japanese tableware up close, the best place to visit is our South Melbourne showroom in Victoria, Australia. It’s the perfect spot to get hands-on with our products, check out our latest collections, and see the craftsmanship for yourself.

Our showroom has everything on display, anything from Japanese plates and bowls to elegant cutlery and home decor. Plus, our friendly team is always on hand to help you find exactly what you're looking for!

Can’t make it to the showroom? No worries! You can still browse our full selection online at Made In Japan.

Our Mornington warehouse is open for Click & Collect orders and returns only. However, it’s not a spot to browse our products. We no longer have a showroom at the warehouse, so it’s not possible to see our Japanese tableware in person.

If you’re in the area and have any questions or need assistance, feel free to get in touch with us at customerservice@mij.com.au. We’re happy to help! For viewing our full range, we recommend visiting our South Melbourne showroom or checking out our website for all the latest collections.

Yes, we do! This is accessible for retailers, stylists, photographers, chefs, creative individuals, brewers, restaurateurs, or cafe owners with an ABN. If you belong to any of these categories, you’re eligible for a trade discount on our full range of Made In Japan products. 

We also love partnering with businesses that appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of Japanese tableware. To get started, simply create an account here.

This way, you'll automatically see our exclusive trade pricing whenever you sign in with your email. Once you're set up, you'll have access to our premium Japanese plates, bowls, cutlery, and tableware at special trade prices, making it easier to bring these exquisite pieces into your business.

In that spirit, we offer personalized assistance and product recommendations to help you choose the right items for your business needs. Let us know how we can help you make the most of our timeless, high-quality ceramics!

The typical lead time for our Made In Japan products, after we have placed our orders with the kiln in Japan, is around 6 to 10 weeks. This timeframe covers the production process as well as shipping to Australia. However, the exact duration can change from time to time based on a few factors, such as:

• National holidays in Japan: Certain holidays can affect production schedules, especially during peak times.
• Availability of the material: Some items might take a little longer if specific materials are in high demand or short supply.
• International and domestic logistics: Shipping times can sometimes be impacted by factors like customs, weather conditions, or changes in transportation availability.

We work closely with our artisans and logistics partners to make sure everything runs smoothly. We’ll always keep you updated if there are any changes to the estimated delivery time. Nevertheless, these beautiful Japanese ceramics are well worth the wait!

The materials used to create Mino Yaki ceramics come from Japan. They are primarily sourced from the Gifu Prefecture in Central Japan, where this centuries-old craft originates. The natural materials that give Mino Yaki its distinctive beauty and strength have their own unique characteristics. Let’s take a look at a handful of them:

Clay

The rich clay deposits found in Gifu are the foundation of Mino Yaki ceramics. Each type of clay has its own unique qualities, which makes the adept for shaping and firing diffrent Japanese tableware that Mino Yaki is known for.

Feldspar

A key ingredient in the glazes, feldspar acts as a flux. This helps to lower the melting point of other glaze materials during firing. What’s more it allows the glaze to bond to the clay. This create that statement look with smooth, glassy finishes which is characteristic of Mino Yaki ceramics.

Silica

Another component used in the glazing process is silica. This mineral provides structure and is the very foundation of the durability in the final piece. In fact, this very element is one of the reasons why Mino Yaki ceramics are both functional and long-lasting.

Natural pigments

The outstanding colors you see in Mino Yaki glazes come from natural minerals and oxides. Artisans often use iron oxide to create shades of earthy reds and browns, cobalt oxide for rich blues, and copper oxide for beautiful greens. These pigments and the masterful use of the combination of them give each piece its vibrant, unique look.

While Gifu provides the bulk of the materials, some Mino Yaki kilns also experiment with:

• Porcelain stoneware combines the best qualities of porcelain and stoneware, which is also a material that brings translucency and strength.
• The use of recycled materials as a nod to sustainability. Some potters are now incorporating recycled glass or porcelain shards into their clay mixtures which also result in a unique texture and aesthetic.

Mino Yaki’s connection to local resources and traditional techniques. It uses naturally sourced materials which gives the ceramics their timeless charm and enduring appeal. Each piece is a product of craftsmanship and a reflection of the natural beauty of Japan’s Gifu region.

Like most artistic crafts, the creation of Mino Yaki ceramics is a fascinating blend of time-honored craftsmanship, modern techniques and artisanal creativity. The result is products that combine function with aesthetics. 

The steps involved in bringing these ceramics to life each have their own complex cycle. It starts with purified, high grade clay and ends with the final product, ready to be shipped for consumer use. 

1. Clay preparation

Selection: The process starts with selecting the right type of local clay from the Gifu prefecture. Each type of clay is unique in characteristics, which is carefully selected by the artisan depending on the desired shape and finish of the piece.

Wedging: The clay then is wedged, which is a process through which the clay is kneaded and folded to remove air bubbles for a smooth, even consistency.

2. Shaping

Techniques: Different artisans use different techniques, or a combination of them, to shape the clay, including:

• Hand-building, where the potter shapes the clay by hand or uses a potter's wheel for more intricate forms.
• Molding the clay by being pressed into pre-made molds to create uniform shapes.
• Throwing is where the potter uses a spinning wheel to create perfectly symmetrical pieces, such as bowls or vases.

Trimming and refining: After shaping, the piece is trimmed on the wheel. This could be done by hand to remove excess clay and refine the shape. Through meticulous observation any small imperfections get corrected at this stage.

3. Drying

After shaping, the ceramic piece is slowly dried to remove excess moisture. This is usually done at room temperature or in a controlled, ventilated environment. Slow drying prevents cracking.

4. Glazing

Composing the glaze 

The glaze is typically made by batches and are often unique to each workshop. They are made from a mix of feldspar, silica, natural pigments, and water, in addition to other materials for creating variable textures on the surface. The ratio and the methods of combination of these ingredients become the determinant of the final color, texture, and finish of the piece.

Applying the glaze

Mino Yaki is famous for its quintessential glazes. The artisan applies glaze using techniques like dipping, pouring, or spraying. The technique used depends on the desired effect. Some pieces may have multiple layers of glaze to create more complex designs.

5. Bisque firing

The first firing which is also called bisque firing, takes place at a lower temperature (around 900°C). Astonishingly, this hardens the clay but doesn’t fully melt the glaze. Artisans do this to allow the ceramic to maintain its shape while getting it ready for final decoration.

6. Decoration

After bisque firing, artisans may add intricate decorations to the piece. Some common techniques used include:

• Underglaze painting: Using colored slips or underglaze paints to create detailed patterns.
• Carving: Adding texture or designs by hand-carving patterns into the clay.
• Metallic Accents: Applying metallic elements like gold or silver for an elevated touch.

7. Glaze Firing

The final firing happens at a much higher temperature (between 1200°C and 1300°C). This step melts the glaze, creating a smooth, glassy surface that fuses with the ceramic body. Such high temperatures also make the piece both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

8. Cooling and Inspection

The ceramic pieces are then cooled slowly in the kiln to prevent temperature shocks and cracking. Once cooled, each piece is carefully inspected for any defects or imperfections. Only the highest-quality items make it through to become available in our stores.

Variations and modern techniques

The traditional process remains the core of Mino Yaki production. However, any art is dynamic and changes with time. Today, some kilns incorporate modern techniques to welcome more efficient ways of production or to create unique effects. 

Among these newer techniques are:

• Spray guns that allow for more even and faster glaze application.
• Electric kilns have a more precise temperature control during firing.

Despite these advancements, the main focus of the region’s artisans remains on using high-quality, local materials and traditional techniques. This has made the name of Mino Yaki ceramics synonymous to high standard crafts that are laced with a timeless appeal.