About

Greeting

For the development of
Kasama and Kasamayaki respectively

Designated as a "traditional craft," Kasamayaki is actively promoted and developed by the Kasamayaki Cooperative through various activities.

One of the primary challenges in preserving traditional crafts for future generations is nurturing the next generation of artisans. The Kasamayaki Cooperative conducts various workshops annually on traditional techniques and basic design skills, alongside training aimed at technique improvement and quality maintenance through research and surveys.

The Cooperative also extends its efforts to securing raw materials, including conducting tests, analyses, and research, as well as joint purchasing from manufacturers to supply to its members. Furthermore, a clay refining plant, completed in 1996, supports production and sales activities. Meanwhile, managing bulk orders for artworks and selling them on behalf of members is another significant role of the Kasamayaki Cooperative.

Now, when it comes to events organized by the Kasamayaki Cooperative, two prominent ones stand out: the "Himatsuri," held during the Golden Week holidays in May, widely known as one of the liveliest events in Ibaraki Prefecture, and the "Kasamayaki Fair," held in autumn. However, in order to convey the charm of Kasamayaki to more people, the Kasamayaki Cooperative conducts various PR activities not only in Kasama but also in other areas. For example, holding exhibitions at renowned locations in Japan, participating in various events, and producing pamphlets are among the promotional activities.

With over 130 member stores, the Kasamayaki Cooperative embodies the aspirations of ceramic artists who continue to embrace the richness and vitality of traditional crafts in daily life with their free and expansive creativity. It is the sincere desire of these artists to see the development of Kasama and Kasamayaki.

Chairman of the Kasamayaki Cooperative,
Hiroshi Ohtsu