Was it tiles or pottery fired here? This is the Kishibe Tile Kiln Site. It is an archaeological site with remains from the Heian period. These ruins are in Suita Osaka.
The Kishibe Tile Kiln Site is historically significant. The central government protects it as a National Historic Site since 1971.
These kiln ruins sit halfway up Shikinzan hills. The hills go from the Senri Hills to the Yodo River’s right bank. This site is part of Kishibe Shrine’s grounds. The Kishibe Tile Kiln Site features nine flat kilns and three climbing kilns. They are arranged in two tiers. The climbing kilns are on the upper tier. The flat kilns are on the lower tier.
The flat kilns have a semi-underground structure. They are about five meters long. The combustion and firing sections are well preserved. The climbing kilns are about six meters long and three meters wide. Flat tiles cover the floor. South of the tile kiln, there are remains of a building. It had pillars, a well, a rotary table, and a clay mining site.
Green-glazed eaves tiles were found here. They date from the early to late Heian period. Green-glazed pottery was also in the climbing kiln. This shows that the kiln made both pottery and tiles. The flat kiln fired the green-glazed roof tiles first. Then, the climbing kiln fired them again for glazing. Some tiles are like those used in the early Heian Palace construction.
The Kishibe Tile Kiln Site tells a story of craftsmanship. It reveals artistic practices from centuries ago. Imagine the artisans carefully shaping clay. Envision the kilns blazing. Picture the creation of tiles that once adorned palaces. These green-glazed tiles reflect the elegance of the Heian period.
The site is now Shikinzan Park. It is a 20-minute walk from Kishibe Station on the JR West Tokaido Main Line.
The Kishibe Tile Kiln Site is more than just ruins. It is a window into Japan’s rich history. It shows the skill and artistry of past generations. The site connects us to the past. It allows us to appreciate the craftsmanship. It also allows us to value the cultural heritage of the Heian period.