Founded in 1932 by Ginpo Toki, GINPO has carried the legacy of Banko ware through four generations. Even during times of limited local resources, the brand continued to evolve—bridging tradition and innovation to meet the needs of everyday life. Its clay pots are made not just to last, but to be used and enjoyed.

Each donabe is produced under one roof, using an integrated process that includes clay development, forming, glazing, firing, and inspection. This tightly managed workflow ensures both quality and consistency. GINPO’s commitment to practical beauty is evident in every detail—melding inherited skill with continuous improvement.

GINPO donabe are 15% lighter than traditional models, offering improved portability without sacrificing thermal performance. This unique balance is achieved through a custom clay blend and carefully refined design—making them easier to use, especially for everyday cooking.

A specially developed glaze prevents the absorption of odors and stains, a common concern with clay cookware. This makes cleanup simpler and keeps the pot in good condition over time. With GINPO, traditional donabe has become more approachable and user-friendly.

To achieve durability and thermal resistance, GINPO blends petalite—sourced from Zimbabwe—into its proprietary clay. The finished pieces can withstand high temperatures and sudden changes in heat. Their glazes are free of lead and cadmium, smooth to the touch, stain-resistant, and food-safe.

Forming is done using roller machines and pressure casting for dimensional stability. Glazing and detailing combine both handwork and automated methods, depending on the model. Firing takes place in a tunnel kiln that is 60 meters (approx. 197 feet) in length, operated over a 24-hour cycle to ensure precise temperature control and consistent results.

Kikka is one of Ginpo’s signature series, distinguished by its lid inspired by chrysanthemum petals and its use of traditional Japanese glazes. Lightweight yet exceptionally durable, each pot is coated with a special glaze that enhances both heat retention and resistance. Perfect for hot pot dishes, stews, and everyday cooking, the Kikka series brings a sense of warmth and elegance to the modern table while honoring the spirit of Japanese tradition.

Introduced in 2020, the PETARI series reinterprets the charm of the traditional donabe for contemporary living. Crafted from a specially developed, highly heat-resistant clay, each piece is made using safe, lead- and cadmium-free materials and methods. The glaze is formulated in-house, blending carefully selected minerals and clays to achieve both refined texture and practical performance. This series moves seamlessly from kitchen to table, bringing warmth and thoughtful simplicity to the modern home.

Introduced in 1955, the Sumi-Kannyu series stands as one of Ginpo’s most historically significant collections. Born from the founder’s innovative approach to adapting the traditional kannyu (crackle pattern) for large-scale production, the series is distinguished by its singularly beautiful finish. Its pared-down form embodies Ginpo’s enduring spirit of innovation and its unwavering dedication to the elegance of functional design.

Introduced in the 1970s and cherished for decades, the Hana Mishima series is defined by a gentle, understated beauty and a sturdy, well-balanced form. Each piece is hand-painted with care, adding a layer of warmth and individuality that complements any table and brings a quiet sense of craft to everyday dining.