Kasama Pottery & Inari Shrine Tour: Cruise Shore Excursion

Overview

Step away from the typical tourist trails and immerse yourself in the creative heart of Ibaraki on this 5-hour cultural shore excursion. This tour takes you to the historic city of Kasama, a place where 1,300 years of spiritual devotion meet centuries of artistic innovation. It is an excursion designed for those who appreciate the tactile beauty of Japanese craftsmanship and the serene power of Shinto tradition.

Your journey explores the world of Kasama-yaki, a pottery style famous for its versatility and lack of rigid rules, allowing artisans to express true individuality. You will also visit one of Japan’s most important Inari shrines, walking through a vibrant district that feels like a window into an older, more soulful Japan. With our Back-to-Ship Guarantee, you can focus entirely on the delicate glaze of a ceramic bowl or the intricate carvings of a shrine, knowing your return to the Hitachinaka pier is handled with precision.

Highlights

• Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum: Explore the first prefectural museum in Japan dedicated entirely to ceramic art, featuring masterpieces from “Living National Treasures.”
• Authentic Pottery Kiln: Go behind the scenes at a local working kiln to witness the transformation of local clay into elegant “Kasama-yaki” ware.
• Kasama Inari Shrine: Visit one of Japan’s three largest Inari shrines, a spiritual landmark founded in 651 AD and dedicated to prosperity and the harvest.
• Monzen-dori Street: Stroll a charming approach to the shrine lined with traditional architecture, local delicacies, and specialized craft shops.

Cruise Information

This 5-hour tour is synchronized with the docking schedules of major cruise lines at the Port of Hitachinaka, including the Diamond Princess. We coordinate our departure directly with your ship’s arrival, meeting you at the terminal with a private licensed guide and driver. Our team monitors port operations in real-time to guarantee a return to the pier at least one hour before your ship’s “all aboard” time.

Full Itinerary

Your cultural adventure begins at Hitachinaka Port, where you will board a comfortable private vehicle for a scenic drive through the Ibaraki countryside. Your first stop is the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum. Set within a beautiful park, the museum showcases the evolution of ceramics from functional folk craft to high modern art. While photography is restricted inside to protect the works, the visual impact of the massive installations and delicate glazes is unforgettable.

Next, you will experience the “hands-on” soul of the city at a Local Pottery Kiln. Unlike other pottery regions with strict styles, Kasama artisans are known for their freedom of expression. You’ll see the wheels in motion and have the opportunity to purchase unique, one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the source.

The tour then moves to the Kasama Inari Shrine. As you pass through the towering red torii gates, you’ll see the intricate “dragon” carvings on the main hall, which are masterpieces of Edo-period craftsmanship. Afterward, enjoy free time on Monzen-dori Street. This is the perfect place to try Inari-zushi (sushi rice in fried tofu), which is a local specialty named after the shrine’s fox messengers. Your day concludes with a relaxing drive back to the port, arriving with ample time for your departure.

Booking with Jasumo

To join one of our Upcoming Shared Tours for 2026 or to request a private vehicle for your family, please contact us via our Contact Us Form. Our travel consultants specialize in cruise logistics and will verify your ship’s docking schedule to ensure a seamless experience.

Jasumo also operates as a Destination Management Company (DMC), providing end-to-end support for individual travelers and travel agencies.

As an exclusive benefit, every booking through Jasumo includes a complimentary 10GB eSIM. This allows you to stay connected—share your photos of the Kasama Inari gates instantly, translate local pottery marks, or access travel updates without the need for public Wi-Fi or expensive roaming.

FAQs

What makes Kasama Pottery (Kasama-yaki) unique?

Most Japanese pottery styles are defined by strict traditions. Kasama-yaki is unique because it encourages “freedom of style.” This has attracted artists from all over Japan, resulting in a diverse range of modern and traditional ceramics that you won’t find anywhere else.

Is there a lot of walking on this tour?

The tour involves “Moderate Walking.” The grounds of the Ceramic Art Museum and the shrine are relatively flat, but exploring the Monzen-dori market street and the kiln areas requires some time on your feet. It is generally not recommended for those with significant mobility difficulties.

What should I try at the Kasama Inari Shrine?

You must try the Inari-zushi. Because Inari shrines are associated with foxes, and foxes are said to love fried tofu (abura-age), this area serves many varieties of tofu-wrapped sushi, including unique versions flavored with walnuts or buckwheat.

Are there English descriptions in the Ceramic Art Museum?

Yes, the museum provides English signage and brochures for its major exhibits, ensuring you can appreciate the historical and artistic context of the masterworks on display.

Can I ship my pottery purchases back home?

Many of the larger kilns and shops in Kasama are experienced with international shipping. Your guide can help facilitate the process to ensure your handcrafted treasures arrive safely at your doorstep.

Location