Umeno Masagorō: Baizan Kiln – Keeper of Tradition The tale of umeno masagorō is inseparable from the history of Tobe ware, Japan’s most venerated ceramic tradition. Born in 1882 in Tobe City, Ehime Prefecture, Masagorō inherited a profound connection to this ancient craft from his father, who established Baizan Kiln – a name derived from “Bai Zan,” meaning “white mountain kiln,” reflecting the kiln’s picturesque setting amidst Shikoku’s mountainous landscape. This kiln isn't merely a production facility; it’s a living testament to centuries of artistic refinement and unwavering devotion to p…