Category:Fukushima Prefecture

Fukushima Prefecture is located in the **Tōhoku region** of northern Honshū and stretches from the Pacific coast to the mountains of the interior. The prefecture is geographically diverse, traditionally divided into three areas: coastal Hamadori, inland Nakadori, and the western highlands of Aizu. Each region has its own cultural character, shaped by climate, landscape, and historic trade routes.

The historic castle town of Aizuwakamatsu in the Aizu region is known for its samurai heritage, lacquer and pottery traditions, and strong sense of regional identity. The central Nakadori area developed as a corridor of travel and commerce, while the coastal Hamadori region has longstanding ties to fishing communities and maritime culture.

Culturally, Fukushima is known for **crafts that emphasize resilience, warmth, and local material expression**. Pottery, lacquerware, textiles, and folk toys reflect both daily life and cultural symbolism. Many of these crafts continue through family workshops and community-based traditions.

Signature Crafts of Fukushima Prefecture

• Aizu lacquerware (会津漆器) – refined lacquer objects with deep gloss and decorative patterns, tied to the samurai culture of Aizu.
• Aizu-hongo ware (会津本郷焼) – pottery known for practical household vessels and regional glazing traditions.
• Miharu papier-mâché dolls (三春張子人形) – brightly painted folk toys associated with seasonal celebrations and good fortune.
• Aizome indigo dyeing (藍染) – traditional blue-dye textiles produced in the Aizu region using natural indigo.