One of the most important villages of the “White Towns”, this former “Chorotega” town and its friendly people have been able to preserve their deep rooted indigenous traditions through fine elaborate clay works. San Juan de Oriente as well as other interesting nearby villages is accessible by an excellent road either from Managua, Granada or San Juan del Sur.

The main entrance of the town is marked by a series of colorful souvenirs shops where all different kind of fascinating clay art is exhibited. Today approximately 95% out of five thousand people living in San Juan de Oriente make their living from this important tradition.

As you explore the town you will find in backyards of houses entire families working, young males spinning pottery wheels shaping clay into pieces of arts, young ladies polishing fresh ceramic with sea stones, other members of the families designing and carving, and also taking care of the kiln. Their elaborate fine work has transcended the Nicaraguan borders and nowadays it is not a surprise to come across their ceramics in shops in America or even Europe.