During the Meiji era, Yamamoto’s grandparents realized the high quality of pottery clay in the Funioka and Kazuwa areas of Kurayoshi City. With this in mind, they moved to the area and established their pottery business in 1983. Near Funioka, there is a historical mound from the former Hoki Province called “Kokuzou-san.” Inspired by the site, Shuji founded Kokuzou Pottery in 1975.
Gazing upon Mount Daisen every morning and evening, living with the same clay as his grandparents, completely wrapped up in the joy of pottery making, well-loved by those around him, Yamamoto fully embraces his nickname “Kokozou-san.”