Yokkaichi Banko ware
Yokkaichi Banko ware—commonly known as Banko ware—finds its origins in the crafting of ceramics ranging from everyday tableware to flower vases. Today, it is best known for its donabe, or Japanese clay pots, valued for their durability and excellent heat retention. Around 80 percent of all donabe produced in Japan are Banko ware, making them an essential tool for home-cooked meals.
Materials
Clay suitable for Banko ware donabe is primarily sourced from prefectures such as Aichi, Mie, Gifu, and Shiga. In addition, highly heat-resistant clays are imported from countries including Brazil and Zimbabwe. This combination of materials contributes to the exceptional thermal resistance that Banko ware donabe are prized for.
Designed to perform reliably over gas stoves, charcoal fires, and open flames, these pots owe much of their strength to carefully engineered clay blends. This is due to the mineral petalite, rich in lithium, which plays an essential role in enhancing thermal durability. When blended into the clay, it allows the donabe to withstand extreme temperature changes with strength and reliability.
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