Iwami Yaki is a robust pottery from western Shimane Prefecture, known for its exceptionally hard, durable ware. This quality comes from firing unique, viscous Tōnotzu clay at extremely high temperatures, hardening its surface like glass. Historically, Iwami Yaki was synonymous with massive utilitarian "hando," immense water jars shipped extensively across Japan by Kitamae-bune trading ships in the late Edo period. While demand for these large jars declined, the specialized "shinozukuri" (coil building) technique for crafting "marumono" (large, round items) is preserved. This skill is now applied to contemporary products like pickle jars and garden ware. Today, eight kilns continue Iwami Yaki's legacy of unique, simple pottery. It was designated a National Traditional Craft in 1994.