The exhibition starting at the end of June will feature Noto-ai (Noto Blue) and heat-resistant purple glass from Notojima Glass Studio.

Dates: Friday, June 26th to Sunday, July 5th
Location: TSUCHI-YA Ginza Store

Noto-ai pieces are among our most popular. For this exhibition, we have a new collection created in the Noto-ai color, featuring pieces we discovered when we visited the Notojima studio.

Among them, my favorites are the "Mitsuhira Small Bowl" and the "Tsurukubi Flower Vase." When I first saw them at the studio's shop, the small bowl was transparent, and the flower vase was made of heat-resistant purple glass. While they were beautiful as they were, I requested them in Noto-ai to match the theme of this exhibition. Seeing the finished pieces, I was drawn to the balance they struck between their inherent charm as objects and their practicality, which naturally brings to mind various usage scenarios.

Mr. Kikuchi, the director of Notojima Glass Studio, is also the creator of the Noto-ai "Ryu" series. When I visited the studio, he showed me the production process. The wavy, flowing design that characterizes "Ryu" is created by wrapping thin glass around the hot glass and pinching it to form patterns.

This tumbler was originally a transparent piece I saw at the shop, and I requested it to be made in Noto-ai. He finished one casually, but its perfection showcased Mr. Kikuchi's high level of skill.

In addition to Noto-ai, we will also feature pieces made of purple heat-resistant glass. Matcha bowls and katakuchi (spouted bowls) made from heat-resistant glass can be used for a wide range of purposes. These typically have white line patterns, but we requested them to be made plain, allowing the glass color to be enjoyed more simply.

In the sweltering heat of the studio during summer, so hot it feels like you might collapse just by being there, four artisans are preparing pieces for the exhibition. While there aren't many of each piece, every single one is filled with their passion. We are also very much looking forward to having everyone see them. We would be delighted if you could include this in your plans for an early summer outing.

Text: Mai Yamamoto Photo: Hiroki Sano

This article is a republication of a newsletter distributed on May 29, 2026. Please note that product handling and prices may have changed.