AWJ Border cover
AWJ-101
AWJ-101 Variation
AWJ-102
AWJ-102 Variation
AWJ-103
AWJ-103 Variation
AWJ-104
AWJ-104 Variation

Awaji Border

See also: Awaji 8″

1-3/4″ x 9-1/2″

9 pcs. = 1 sq.ft. / 72 pcs. = 8 sq.ft. per box

Note: Wide shade variation inherent in this series. This is not a mesh mounted product. Recommended grout joint 3/16″ or greater.
Awaji, while appearing to be an unglazed product, is easily maintained due to the application of a sealer prior to the firing process. In this regard, sealing is not necessary prior to grouting or after installation.
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Description

A Story of Enduring Craft:

The History of DANTO-SHA, Japan’s Oldest Tile Maker

 

Japan is a nation shaped by countless islands. According to Japanese mythology, Awaji Island is believed to be the first island created by the two deities who gave birth to the land of Japan. Encircled by three straits, Awaji has long been blessed with gifts from both sea and mountains-salt, sand, and clay of remarkable quality. Fine white sand (Suna) from the east and rich brown clay (Tan-do) from the west nurtured a distinctive ceramic heritage, including Minpei-yaki pottery and the celebrated Awaji roof tiles.

 

In 1885, DANTO-SHA was founded here, and today it stands as Japan’s oldest existing tile manufacturer. By the early 1900s, the company began producing Japanese-style majolica tiles and established a unique production method—selecting soils and sands from across Japan, forming dense unglazed bodies, and finishing them with traditional glazes. The result: tiles of exceptional durability and frost resistance, suitable for interior and exterior applications alike. Despite significant damage from major earthquakes in 1995 and 2011, DANTO-SHA recovered with resilience and continues to carry its legacy forward.

Each tile begins with a naturally expressive unglazed base, composed from multiple clays and fired for a full day and night. Within the kiln, subtle chemical reactions create organic, one-of-a-kind variations in tone and texture. Often described as natural ceramic art, these tiles reflect more than 140 years of craftsmanship. Their depth, warmth, and authentic color movement cannot be replicated by modern inkjet printing.

 

In 2024, DANTO-SHA joined forces with CEPAC TILE, which for nearly four decades has introduced Japanese tile to the American market. After two years of thoughtful development, a new collection was realized.

Named AWAJI in honor of its birthplace, the collection is offered in four colors inspired by the island’s native materials:

  • WHITE — Tan-en  Evoking the refined whiteness of Awaji’s high-quality sea salt.
  • BLACK — Gen-tan  Inspired by the deep tones of traditional Awaji roof tiles.
  • BROWN — Tan-do  Drawn from the rich brown clay found in western Awaji.
  • BEIGE — Suna  Inspired by the natural sea sand of eastern Awaji.

No two tiles are ever the same. Yet their natural variation remains refined-quietly harmonizing with both interior and exterior spaces.

This is AWAJI. A collaboration shaped by place, history, and enduring craft.