In the vicinity of Okayama is the famous Bizen-yaki craft center, which can also be visited as part of the tour. Here, craftsmen make unique pottery according to ancient technology, which is the oldest in Japan. All visitors to the center can observe the work of the masters and even buy products they like. Special clay with a unique mineral composition is used for making utensils, which is the main secret of high quality.
Many unique sanctuaries have been preserved in the city and its surroundings, and one of the most interesting is Saijo Inari Shrine. This temple was founded more than 1,200 years ago, and today it is a large architectural complex with several memorial zones. This temple has many interesting features, some of its parts were constructed without the use of any fastening elements. The position of huge stones stacked on each other has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. In one of the most remote parts of the temple, there is a small spring, the water of which is believed to be miraculous.
A tour of the Old Residence of Samurai of Ashimori Clan promises to be informative. Built in the classical traditions, it represents a valuable architectural object. The residence has an ancient tea house, several storage rooms, as well as a magnificent garden with many rare plants.
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