Originated by the 1st generation Kojima Kanzo from Kamegawa, Beppu, Oita during the Taisho period after he repeatedly trained at kilns throughout the country before returning home to start a kiln. The name of Chinoike ware came about from Chinoike Jigoku in the nearby Kannawa hot springs. He created elegant teacups and tea sets using the distinctive red clay with high iron content from this region. The kiln is still active to this day, as it has been passed down to the 2nd generation Kojima Seu and the 3rd generation Kojima Mitsuo. Only the 1st generation created tea bowls, and many earthenware bells and other small items and ornaments have been the focus for production since the 2nd generation.
