Japanese Field Studies: Field trip to Kasama(Wednesday,November 13)

On November 13, 19 international students, including 11 participants of the Japanese language training course "Japanese Field Studies," visited Kasama City in Ibaraki Prefecture. They explored Kasama Inari Shrine, the main venue of the "Chrysanthemum Festival" held in the city, and learned about the city's history and artistic culture through activities such as a pottery-making experience at Otsu Akiko Kiln and a visit to the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum.

At Kasama Inari Shrine, they also enjoyed local specialties, including Inari sushi and chestnut-based sweets. During the pottery-making experience, they received an explanation of the history of Kasama-yaki (Kasama ware) and tried their hand at creating pottery using a potter's wheel. Kasama Mayor Shinju Yamaguchi kindly attended the event, providing the students with a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the mayor about the city's attractions. Lastly, at the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum, they deepened their understanding of ceramics as an art form and the history of Kasama-yaki through various exhibitions.