Things To Do
in Kasama
Kasama is a quaint city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Known for its rich history and beautiful nature, Kasama is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience traditional Japanese culture. The city is famous for its Kasama-yaki pottery, which has been produced in the region for centuries.
Visitors can enjoy exploring historic temples, serene gardens, and scenic hiking trails in and around Kasama.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kasama Inari Shrine, known for its stunning vermilion torii gates. Take a peaceful stroll around the shrine and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Head to the Kasama Marble Park for a picnic and enjoy the beautiful sculptures. You can also try your hand at marble crafting at the park's workshop.
Wrap up your day with a traditional dinner at a local izakaya. Savor some fresh seafood dishes unique to the Ibaraki region.
Visit Kasama’s cherry blossom viewing spots, such as the Kasama Park. Early blooms offer a stunning backdrop for photos and a serene start to your day.
Have lunch in a café nearby, enjoying seasonal cherry blossom-themed treats. Engage in a leisurely walk through the cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
Experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms under the lights at the park. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby restaurant, focusing on delicacies inspired by sakura.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including traditional festivals and local crafts.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, with parks and mountains for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Access to local cuisine and fresh ingredients from nearby farms.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to larger Japanese cities.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel more difficult.
- Fewer job opportunities compared to major urban areas.
- Milder climate may not suit everyone's preferences.
- Limited entertainment and nightlife options for younger residents.
- Possible language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Kasama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking the trails on Mount Aso, an active volcano, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and crater. It’s a great way to experience the region's natural beauty.
Exploring Nabegataki Falls provides an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty and the refreshing mist of the waterfall. The area is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Exploring the picturesque countryside around Kasama on a bike allows visitors to discover charming villages, beautiful rice fields, and serene landscapes at their own pace.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kasama with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kasama
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning views and opportunities to take breathtaking photos of the surrounding landscape.
Offers picturesque views of the castle grounds and the city of Kumamoto.
Features a beautiful gorge with crystal-clear water and lush greenery, providing plenty of photo opportunities.
Food in Kasama
Kasama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory rice dish made with local Kasama-grown ingredients, such as soy sauce-flavored grilled eel and fresh vegetables. Best enjoyed at local restaurants like Kasama Meshi Kobo.
Must-Try!
Fermented soybeans known for their stringy texture and pungent aroma. Try this unique dish at Kasama Natto Factory or local izakayas.
Soft and chewy rice cakes that are a local specialty, often served with sweet red bean paste. Visit traditional confectionery shops like Matsuya Mochi to savor authentic mochi.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kasama better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This market not only showcases exquisite ceramics but also offers a variety of street food such as grilled skewers, takoyaki, and regional snacks like kusamochi (mochi with mugwort).
During the annual Natto Festival, the streets come alive with stalls offering a diverse array of natto-based street foods, providing a perfect opportunity to sample this unique delicacy.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kasama, it is important to remove your shoes before entering someone's home as a sign of respect. Additionally, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as food or drink, as a token of appreciation for the hospitality.
When attending social gatherings in Kasama, it is customary to bow as a sign of greeting and respect. It is also important to wait for the host to start eating or drinking before you begin, and to express gratitude for the food and drink provided.
In Japanese culture, personal space is highly valued. It is important to be mindful of physical proximity and avoid standing too close or touching others without their consent, as it may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kasama with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kasama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including in Kasama. In fact, it is often considered rude or awkward to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. The price listed on the bill is the final amount, and no additional tips are expected or required.
In Kasama, as in most of Japan, cash is the primary form of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but smaller businesses and rural areas may prefer cash. Contactless payment methods, such as IC cards and smartphone payments, are also popular and convenient.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kasama.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for cherry blossom viewing, pleasant temperatures, and various festivals.
Warm and humid weather, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the lush green landscapes.
Beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Cold temperatures, occasional snowfall, and the chance to experience winter festivals and activities.
Kasama at Night
Hiking in Kasama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Oroshi Mountain offers stunning views and a variety of trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels. The area is known for its natural beauty and rich flora and fauna.
Located a bit further from Kasama, Tsukuba Mountain is famous for its dual peaks and accessible hiking trails. It is a popular destination with various routes and scenic spots.
This park features well-marked trails through lush forests and along rivers. It's a great destination for nature lovers and those looking to spot local wildlife.
Part of the Nikko National Park, Shirane Mountain offers more challenging hikes with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, making it ideal for experienced hikers.
A family-friendly hiking spot with easy trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park features a variety of trees and wildlife, providing an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kasama through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kasama by plane.
The largest airport in Hokkaido, located near Sapporo. It serves as a major international gateway to the region.
One of Japan's primary international airports located near Tokyo. It serves a vast number of international flights.
Located in Tokyo, it is one of the busiest airports in Japan with numerous domestic and international flights.
An international airport located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region.
Located near Nagoya, it serves as another important international airport in Japan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Kasama, representing the local population.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various countries living in Kasama.
An indigenous group in Japan, present in smaller numbers.
Descendants of workers and immigrants from the Korean Peninsula.
The Soul of Kasama
Discover the essence of Kasama through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Kasama, with local teams and leagues actively participating in this traditional Japanese sport.
Soccer has gained popularity in Kasama, with various youth and adult leagues fostering a love for the game within the community.
Basketball is widely played in schools and local clubs, with many residents regularly engaging in this fast-paced sport.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced by many residents, promoting physical fitness and discipline.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Kasama, with several courts available for public use and local competitions taking place.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Japanese cuisine typically includes seafood and meat, vegetarian options like vegetable tempura, tofu-based dishes, and pickled vegetables are available at most restaurants. Look for eateries that specialize in shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine).
Finding explicitly vegan options can be a challenge, but many establishments are accommodating. Look for dishes like vegetable sushi, seaweed salads, and inari sushi (tofu pockets filled with rice).
Many traditional Japanese dishes are naturally gluten-free, but caution is advised due to potential sources of hidden gluten, such as soy sauce. Communicate your dietary needs clearly and seek out restaurants knowledgeable about gluten-free cooking.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kasama with these cultural adventures.