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The Introduction and Impact of Tunnel Kilns in the Japanese Ceramic Industry During the Early 20th Century

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The paper “The Introduction and Impact of Tunnel Kilns in the Japanese Ceramic Industry During the Early 20th Century” explores the pivotal role tunnel kilns played in the industrialization of Japan's ceramic production. It focuses particularly on developments during the Meiji (1868 to 1912), Taishō (1912 to 1926), and early Shōwa (1926 to 1945) eras. Beginning with an analysis of kiln technology advancements in the West, the study traces the adoption and improvement of tunnel kilns in Japan. In particular, it emphasizes the significant contributions of the Morimura Group through its flagship companies: Noritake, Toyo Toki, and NGK Insulators. The shift from periodic, labor intensive kilns to continuous firing technology marked a fundamental change in both the efficiency and scale of Japanese ceramic manufacturing. The Morimura Group, an export wholesale company at the forefront of this transition, played a key role in refining European tunnel kiln models such as the Dressler (England), Harrop (America), and Kerabedarf (Germany) kilns. Morimura Group engineers modified these designs by adjusting airflow and combustion controls to improve fuel efficiency and achieve more consistent temperature distribution. These and other key advancements led to a reduction in production costs and firing times. For the first time in the country’s history, domestic ceramic companies were able to mass produce high quality products, including fine china, sanitary ware, and insulators. Through detailed case studies of major kiln models and their adaptations, the paper shows how tunnel kiln technology helped Japan become a global leader in ceramic production in the early 20th century. It also explores the difficulties smaller manufacturers faced in adopting these kilns, especially before and during World War II (1939 to 1945), due to high upfront costs and the large amount of land required. Despite these obstacles, the spread of tunnel kilns laid the foundation for the growth of Japan's industrial ceramics sector to support traditional potters and also expand to new areas such as tile production. The paper concludes by reflecting on the long term impact of these innovations. Tunnel kilns not only transformed the Japanese ceramic industry but also contributed to broader trends in manufacturing practices. The transition to tunnel kilns in Japan was a pivotal point in the global history of industrial ceramic innovation and continues to shape the industry today.
DOI: 10.31065/kjah.326.202506.007
Language: English
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4412768650
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