was a town located in KÃ Âka District, Shiga Prefecture, Japan.
As of 2004, the town had an estimated population of 13,885 and a density of 84.92 persons per km<sup>2</sup>. The total area is 163.5 km<sup>2</sup>.
On October 1, 2004, Shigaraki, along with the towns of KÃ Âka, KÃ Ânan, Minakuchi and Tsuchiyama (all from KÃ Âka District), was merged to create the city of KÃ Âka.
It also served as the imperial capital for several months in 745, before moving to Heijà Â-kyà  due to a forest fire destroying the palace (Shigaraki Palace).
Shigaraki is famous for its ceramic kilns since ancient times. The area is known for its clay beds, and locally mined clay is often used by local potters. Works produced here are known as Shigaraki-yaki. Many local potters use wood fired anagama kilns. Many tanuki statues are also produced here.