Gojōzaka (五条坂 ごじょうざか Gojōzaka) ^[1] is a street running from east to west in the vicinity of the Kiyomizu-dera temple, in the city of Kyoto, Japan. The street runs for about 400m from Kiyomizu-zaka Street (east) to the intersection of Gojō and Higashi Ōji Streets (west). ^[2] According to some local opinions, Gojōzaka actually begins on the east side of the Gojō Ōhashi Bridge and from that point it runs all the way to Kiyomizu-zaka Street. ^[1] Also, at the northeast corner of the intersection of Gojō Street and Yamato Ōji Street, a stone monument that reads "east from here, Gojōzaka" stands. ^[3]

In the mid Muromachi Period, what would become the famous pottery style of Kiyomizu ware was born in the area. By the year 1643 ( Edo Period) the name of Kiyomizu-yaki was established and the pottery industry began to flourish in the surroundings. ^[2]

During WWII, ceramic grenades ( Type 4 grenade) and ceramic fuel tanks for rockets were produced using the kilns of the local pottery businesses. ^[2]

In the decade of the 1960s, the pollution from the smoke of the Noborigama kilns (climbing kilns) used around the street became a problem and as a result, the old style kilns were eventually replaced with electric and gas devices. ^[2]

Kiyomizu ware continues to be produced and sold in the area, being a popular spot for shopping and for learning about this traditional craft, which attracts both local residents and tourists. ^[3] There are also shops offering Nishijin-ori textiles and folding fans, as well as art galleries located in the vicinity. ^[4]

Although most of the Noborigama kilns (climbing kilns) of the area were removed, there are still at least 3 of these left, preserved as important cultural and historical assets. ^{[3] [5]}

Every year in August, the famous Gojozaka Pottery Festival is held along the street. ^{[1] [2]}

Source: ^[1]

• Kyoto Ceramic Center
• Chawanzaka
• Kiyomizu-zaka
• Kiyomizu-dera

• Kyoto Ceramic Center
• Gojozaka Pottery Festival Archived 2020-08-08 at the Wayback Machine