Terms of Service

1. About 乙 otsu

乙 otsu is a gallery specialising in Bizen ware (Bizen-yaki), traditional Japanese ceramics from Okayama Prefecture. Each piece is handcrafted by artisans and fired in wood-burning climbing kilns (noborigama) for 14 days.

Company: 乙 otsu
Address: 545-20 Masuda, Higashi-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama-ken, Japan
Email: nomura41985@gmail.com

2. The Nature of Bizen Ware

Bizen ware is distinguished by its unglazed surface and the natural patterns created by fire and ash (yohen). Please understand the following characteristics before purchasing:

• Variations: Each piece is unique. Colors, patterns, and textures vary due to kiln placement and firing conditions.
• Kintsugi & Crackle: Fine cracks (kan-nyu) and natural imperfections are intentional features, not defects.
• Size Variations: Handmade items may have slight size differences (±5mm) from listed measurements.
• Patina Development: Colors deepen and surfaces become more lustrous with use over time.

These variations are the essence of Bizen craftsmanship and are not grounds for returns.

3. Orders & Payment

Acceptance: Your order constitutes an offer to purchase. We reserve the right to refuse orders if items are unavailable or pricing errors occur.

Payment: We accept major credit cards via Stripe. Payment is processed immediately upon order confirmation.

Pricing: All prices include all applicable taxes and import duties. Shipping costs are calculated separately at checkout. No additional charges will be due upon delivery.

4. Shipping & Delivery

Processing: Orders are processed as quickly as possible. Tracking information will be provided via email once your order is dispatched.
Delivery: We ship from Okayama, Japan via Japan Post or DHL.
Worldwide: 7-14 business days (varies by destination and customs clearance)
Exact delivery estimates will be provided via email after order confirmation.

Packaging: Items are carefully packed with protective materials suitable for fragile ceramics. However, we are not responsible for shipping carrier delays.

5. Returns & Refunds

Due to the one-of-a-kind nature of our products:

• Damaged Items: If your item arrives broken, contact us within 48 hours with photos. We will offer a replacement (if available) or full refund.
• Change of Mind: Returns are not accepted for "change of mind" as each piece is unique and cannot be restocked.
• Not as Described: If the item significantly differs from the description (excluding natural variations mentioned in Section 2), contact us within 7 days.

See our full Returns Policy for details.

6. Intellectual Property

All content on this website (images, text, logos) is the property of 乙 otsu and protected by international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, or use our content without written permission.

7. Limitation of Liability

乙 otsu's liability is limited to the purchase price of the item. We are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages. Ceramic items are inherently fragile; proper handling is the customer's responsibility after delivery.

8. Changes to Terms

We may update these terms occasionally. Changes are effective immediately upon posting. Continued use of our site constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

9. Contact

Questions about these terms?
Email: nomura41985@gmail.com
We aim to respond within 2 business days.