On November 17 and 18, 2023, the event “Go Forward 2023” was organized by “NEXTRAD,” a team of 13 kiln owners from Imari and Arita in Saga Prefecture working to ensure a sustainable future for the Arita ware industry.

The event aimed to raise awareness about the craftsmanship of Arita ware and the current situation and challenges faced by the industry. It featured exhibitions showcasing the manufacturing processes and initiatives of various kilns, open studio tours allowing visitors to observe the production sites, and workshops providing hands-on experiences in the creation of Arita ware.

The event, held annually since 2021 and now in its third edition, marked a significant occasion as it was the first time it took place since the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions on public events. A portion of the event was organized and co-hosted with the “Monosugo TOUR” planned and managed by Saga Prefecture. Monosugo TOUR is a tour designed to convey the charm and enjoyment of craftsmanship to a wide range of age groups by arranging visits to manufacturing companies and workshops in Saga Prefecture. The “Imari and Arita ware Craftsman Experience Tour,” a part of “Go Forward 2023,” had nearly 500 applications for its 60 available slots, attracting many families and contributing to improvements in audience engagement, which had been a challenge during the pandemic.