Kasama Yaki is a form of porcelain produced in the area around the city of Kasama, Ibaraki prefecture. This porcelain has long been considered a traditional souvenir of visiting Kasama Inari shrine (one of Japan's three major Inari shrines). Kasama Yaki has a strong finish which is produced with fine grained clay called gairome clay. Because of its strength and stain resistant feature, it is used for kitchenware such as water jugs, tea canisters and other daily used items. As gairome clay has a high iron content and turns brown after firing, it is more common to use decorating techniques such as dripping or overlaying glaze. In addition to a great diversity of decoration techniques, artisans are encouraged to develop their individuality on Kasama ware pieces without the constraints of tradition and formalities. Today, Kasama ware is used in flower vases, household ornaments, and art pieces. Potters continue to maintain a high level of quality that has been passed down ever since the Edo period (1603-1868).