Mashiko-yaki has traditionally been pottery fired in wood-burning kilns in Mashiko. The "yaki" part of Mashiko-yaki translates as "baked" and refers to its wood firing. Mashiko-yaki was first distinguished from other types of Japanese pottery by its sturdy, rustic clay and reddish-brown color; however, now Mashiko-yaki refers to all pottery made in Mashiko and includes many different styles and colors.
Most Mashiko-yaki is formed on a wheel and made into tea sets, vases. dishes and other tableware. Mashiko potters also create large planters and garden pieces, tiles, sinks and sculptural pieces such as animals from Japanese folklore (frogs, tanuki, owls), cats, fish and abstract sculptural forms.
This link from the Mashiko town tourist association shows the process of creating Mashiko pottery, from digging clay to finished product:
Video showing one of Mashiko's top potters, Ken Matsuzaki, throwing chawans (teabowls) at the kick-wheel. Filmed by Jay Goldmark in 2007 during a studio visit.