Welcome to Okuyama House
We are a small, hands-on center for creative exploration and cultural exchange in the Japanese countryside. Our home and studio occupy a renovated farmhouse and woodshop surrounded by mountains, gardens, and a winding river. We’ve built and renovated these spaces ourselves―our large kitchen, guest rooms, pottery studio, woodshop, “nature studio,” and a soda kiln―so that they can nurture both seasoned artists and curious beginners.
Our approach is intentionally small-scale: typically just two or three visitors at a time for stays of one to eight weeks. By keeping our numbers low, we stay flexible and can tailor each person’s experience to their own needs and dreams. We view it as a shared journey―one that respects cultural nuances, personal growth, and the quiet, deliberate beauty of life in rural Japan.
Okuyama House isn’t only about making things (although you can make a lot). It’s about the process―inviting curiosity, focusing on craftsmanship, and building meaningful relationships along the way.
At Okuyama House, we invite visitors to immerse themselves in a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary experimentation. Although ceramics lie at the heart of our work, we welcome all kinds of creative and learning pursuits. Whether you want to deepen your pottery skills, research building techniques, or work on another artistic practice, we provide the environment, the resources, and the encouragement to help you thrive.
Program Overview
We believe that a thoughtful, measured approach allows everyone to explore possibilities without feeling rushed. Our process unfolds in stages, ensuring that both you and we have space to decide if and how this collaboration will take shape.
1 - Application Form
We’re excited to learn about your background, goals, and what you hope to gain from your time at Okuyama House.
2 - Application Review & Customization
We’ll review your application and follow up within two weeks with any clarifying questions. If needed, we’ll also go over custom options and pricing adjustments to best fit your goals.
3 - Introductory Video Chat Meeting
This meeting is a chance to meet face-to-face, clarify questions, and explore any nuances that haven’t come up in writing.
4 - Acceptance & Deposit
After the conversation, we’ll follow up once we’ve had time to consider everything. If we both decide to move forward, we’ll send an email with next steps. A ¥20,000 deposit secures your place, and we’ll send a “Curriculum Worksheet” to help you plan your time with us.
Taking time with these first few steps feels important to us. We want you to feel secure and excited about your time with us, just as we want to be confident that our home, facilities, and approach are a good fit for you.
5 - Curriculum Design & Final Preparation
Over a week or two, we’ll collaborate on a schedule that works for your goals. This might include lesson hours, shared studio time, potential travel days, or anything else that brings your vision to life.
6 - Arrival & Program
We’ll help coordinate your travel as needed. Once you arrive, your program begins. You’ll have your private room, shared kitchen time, full studio access, and the daily rhythms of Okuyama House life.
7 - End-of-Program Reflection
Before you leave, we’ll give you a worksheet to reflect on your experience and offer us feedback. We’d also love to share your story on our website if you wish.
Our Basic Program
Base Pricing
¥45,000 plus ¥16,000/day
A deposit of ¥20,000 is due upon acceptance (applied toward final costs)
We offer various financial aid options―just check the box on the application if you’d like more info, and we’ll send you details.
Basic Expectations
Pitching in for basic chores and for kitchen cleanup after meals
Respect for shared spaces and other participants
What's Included
Intake and end-of-session processes
Ongoing support and guidance during your stay
Access to studio spaces and communal living areas
Meals, including coffee and tea
Private room
Access to nature hikes, gardens and more
Add-Ons & Extras
Because every visitor’s journey is unique, we offer additional experiences and services at various additional costs―firing and shipping pottery, in-depth lessons, cultural day trips, and much more. During your intake process, we’ll discuss how we can best help you fulfill your goals.