Things To Do
in Kasama

Kasama, Japan, is a charming city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. It is famous for its traditional pottery, particularly Kasama-yaki, and hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year. The city is surrounded by nature, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its friendly atmosphere and cultural heritage, Kasama offers a unique glimpse into Japan's traditional lifestyle.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Kasama's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day at the Kasama Inari Shrine, a prominent Shinto shrine known for its striking torii gates and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kasama Pottery Museum to learn about the history and techniques of Kasama-yaki pottery, followed by a hands-on pottery workshop.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Japanese meal at a local kaiseki restaurant, savoring seasonal ingredients and beautifully presented dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Hike in the nearby Kasama Nature Park, where you can enjoy scenic views and lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kasama Science Museum for an interactive experience and learn about the region’s natural history.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration, followed by dinner at a nearby izakaya.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍵Tea$3
🏨Hotel (per night)$80
🚌Bus Ticket$2
🥡Takeout Meal$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport can be infrequent.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Kasama

Visit one of these nice places.

Kasama Inari Shrine

Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, making it a picturesque spot for photography.

Kasama Nature Park

Offers breathtaking landscapes, especially during cherry blossom season and autumn, perfect for nature photography.

Kasama Pottery Museum

The museum's unique architecture and surrounding gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for artistic photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kasama

Kasama offers a delightful culinary experience with its local dishes and vibrant food scene, reflecting the rich traditions of the region.

Kasama Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kasama-yaki

A traditional pottery style that includes beautiful ceramic tableware, often featuring natural glazes and designs.

Must-Try!

Miso Soup

A staple in Japanese cuisine, often made with local miso for a unique flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kasama City Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh local produce, snacks, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kasama experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, averaging temperatures around 0°C (32°F), while summers are warm and humid, averaging 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is common, especially in summer, so it's wise to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and shows respect. The depth of the bow depends on the situation and relationship.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional accommodations.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public places to respect others' comfort and privacy.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kasama is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any travel, it's advisable to stay vigilant and keep an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services are accessible, and the locals are generally helpful.

Tipping in Kasama

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude. Good service is expected and included in the price.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are becoming more common in urban areas. ATMs are available, but check for compatibility with foreign cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms throughout the city, especially in parks. The weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid, summer is great for enjoying local festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, especially in nature parks, and the weather is cooler and comfortable.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snow can be expected. It's a quieter time to visit, ideal for enjoying hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Kasama at Night

Kasama's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers cozy izakayas and bars where locals gather. You can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with traditional sake and local dishes. Seasonal festivals may also provide evening entertainment, showcasing local culture and music.

Hiking in Kasama

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Tsukuba Trail

A well-known hiking trail located nearby, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a mix of challenging and easy routes.

Kita Ibaraki Hiking Trails

A series of trails that wind through forests and hills, ideal for nature lovers looking for a peaceful hiking experience.

Airports

How to reach Kasama by plane.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Located approximately 90 km from Kasama, Narita is the closest major international airport, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kasama is a walkable city, with many attractions located within a reasonable distance from each other. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require a short bus ride or taxi if you're not up for a long walk.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Predominantly Japanese, the local population is friendly and often engaged in traditional crafts and agriculture.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations, drawn by the city's cultural offerings and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is widely popular in Japan, and local teams often play in nearby cities, attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts such as judo and kendo are practiced by many locals, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kasama is generally light, and public transportation is available through buses and trains. The city is well connected to neighboring areas, making it easy to travel around. Buses run at regular intervals, but it's advisable to check the schedule, especially during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasama.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your needs clearly. Look for 'yasai' (vegetable) dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's best to inquire beforehand and consider bringing snacks.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kasama is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are reliable, and most hospitals have English-speaking staff. It's advisable to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide