Aside from the Kumamon connection, I think the potential for 3-D printing to facilitate creativity among ceramic artists is interesting.

“CEO Takayuki Higashigawa, 63, has used the printer to create figures of Kumamon, the mascot for Kumamoto Prefecture, among others. The 3-D design was based on multiple images and scans of the character.”

Posted by Kirk

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/03/20/national/pottery-makers-may-embrace-3-d-printing-hone-designs/#.VQvrjxCUdSs