Kasama, Historic pottery city in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
Kasama is a city in central Ibaraki Prefecture surrounded by mountains and bisected by the Hinuma River flowing through its center. The area spans across rolling terrain with distinct neighborhoods connected by local transportation routes.
The city originated as a castle town founded in 1205 by Kasama Tokitomo on Mount Sashirosan. During the Edo period it evolved into a strategic post station that served travelers and merchants moving along major routes.
The Kasama Inari Shrine Festival draws thousands annually to experience traditional ceremonies and performances at this centuries-old spiritual site. The shrine's role as a gathering place continues to shape how residents and visitors connect with the city's sacred traditions.
From Tokyo, visitors can reach the city in about 80 minutes by taking the JR Line Tokkyu or driving via the Joban Expressway. Once there, multiple local bus routes connect the main attractions and help navigate between different areas of the city.
The city maintains a 400-year pottery tradition with numerous artisans producing Kasama-yaki ceramics in studios scattered throughout its neighborhoods. This craft technique has been passed down through families and continues to define the artisanal identity of the region.
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