Why Japanese Tiles Cost More

Japanese tiles are more expensive because they are made differently.

The surface is not applied after production. It is created during firing in the kiln through the interaction of clay, glaze and temperature.

This changes how the tile performs across a wall, how it responds to light and how it holds its visual quality over time.

Surface created, not applied

Many tiles rely on printed patterns and shorter firing cycles to create a consistent finish.

Japanese tiles are produced through longer firing processes at higher temperatures. The glaze develops naturally, creating variation in tone, texture and depth.

The result is a material surface, not a graphic layer.

Why this increases cost

Longer firing cycles, higher temperatures and smaller production volumes increase manufacturing time and complexity.

Variation is not removed, it is controlled. This requires careful production and selection.

This is what drives the higher cost per square metre.

What you get in return

A surface that behaves like a material rather than a pattern.

Variation across each tile creates movement across the wall. Light interacts with the glaze, creating depth that changes throughout the day.

This is why Japanese tiles are specified in projects where the wall finish is part of the architecture.

Used in real projects

This approach is evident in projects such as Kasumigaseki in Dubai, The Broadcaster in London and Hamilton Park.

In each case, the tiles are used as an architectural surface, creating depth, continuity and material presence across the space.

Exclusivity and controlled supply

Japanese tiles are not widely distributed outside Japan.

Many collections are produced in smaller volumes and are not available through large international supply chains.

This limits availability, but ensures the material is not widely repeated across multiple projects.

Direct access and specialist support

Mittsu operates with a focused, project-led approach rather than high-volume distribution.

Every enquiry is handled directly by a senior team member with in-depth knowledge of Japanese tiles and their application.

This allows better decisions during specification, particularly where variation, layout and installation detail are critical.

Why architects choose Japanese tiles

• Surface depth created during firing
• Natural variation rather than printed repetition
• Formats suited to architectural use
• Materials that respond to light and scale

Evaluating the material

The difference is most clearly understood through physical samples.

Glaze depth, surface texture and tonal variation are difficult to fully evaluate from images alone.

This is why samples form an essential part of the specification process.