STOP PRESS: Only 2 spaces remain for the March 2025 Tour to Japan. (More tours to be planned and I will advertise them here. Get on my mailing list to be the first in line.)

Imagine stepping into the breathtaking Japanese countryside, surrounded by mist-covered mountains and ancient pottery villages, where the tradition of woodfired ceramics has been honed over centuries. This is your chance to go beyond the classroom and experience the magic of Japanese woodfiring firsthand.

In collaboration with master potter John Dix, I am thrilled to invite you to join me on an unforgettable two-week Japan Woodfiring Tour in  2025. The first of these is in March and is almost booked out with only 2 places remaining.

This is more than just a workshop—it’s a deep dive into the rich world of Japanese woodfiring kilns, traditional craftsmanship, and the raw beauty of handmade ceramics.

A Unique Learning Experience

My own journey to Japan in 2022 ignited a lifelong passion for the artistry and soul of Japanese ceramics. During my residency, I worked closely with John Dix at his Fieldwork studio, an inspiring educational space nestled in the Tamba region. His philosophy—“anyone can woodfire”—welcomes ceramicists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned potters, creating an inclusive and supportive environment to explore this ancient craft.

In 2023, I took a group of emerging Australian potters on their first journey to experience the magic of Japanese woodfiring, and the impact was profound. Now, I’m expanding the tour and opening it up to passionate ceramicists from all over the world.

What You Can Expect

• Hands-on Woodfiring: You’ll have the rare opportunity to fire in traditional Anagama and Noborigama kilns, learning the techniques that have shaped Japanese pottery for centuries.
• Master Guidance: Work directly with me (Sofie Neuendorf) and John Dix, a master potter with decades of experience, as we guide you through every step of the process.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience the deep connection between nature and craftsmanship, explore local pottery villages, and engage with the rich history of Japanese ceramics.
• Creative Inspiration: Surround yourself with like-minded artists and immerse yourself in an environment where creativity flows as naturally as the wood smoke that dances through the kilns.

Join Us in 2025

This is more than a tour—it’s a journey into the heart of Japanese craftsmanship, where you’ll not only learn, but feel the soul of woodfiring in one of the most inspiring environments in the world.

I've specially designed the first tour in 2025 to be tailored more towards early career potters. If you don't have much experience woodfiring then this is definitely the tour for you as it offers something extraordinary. From the thrill of firing your own pieces in ancient kilns to the quiet reflection of rural Japan, this experience will stay with you for a lifetime.