Ibaraki Culture
History of Ibaraki
In the early 8th century, the “Hitachi-no-kuni Fudoki,” a historical record compiled during the Nara period, described Ibaraki as “a land of wide expanse, fertile soil, and abundant marine and mountain products, where people lived in prosperity, much like the mythical land of Tokoyo.” This indicates that people have been living prosperously in the region since ancient times.
During the medieval and early modern periods, influential warlords established their domains in this area. Particularly in the Edo period, the Tokugawa clan established a domain in Mito, and the region developed as a political, economic, and cultural center due to its proximity to Edo and its strategic position for land and water transportation.
After the collapse of the Edo shogunate, Ibaraki Prefecture was established in 1871 through the abolition of feudal domains and the reorganization of prefectures. It reached its current size in 1875.
Since then, Ibaraki Prefecture has continued to develop significantly in all aspects, including agriculture, industry, science and technology, culture, and welfare, building on the industries and culture cultivated in the region.
Culture of Ibaraki
Ibaraki Prefecture boasts cultural heritage sites such as Kairakuen Garden and Kashima Shrine. The region has also produced many great figures, including the Nihonga painter Yokoyama Taikan, the modern ceramic artist Itaya Hazan, and the children’s song lyricist Noguchi Ujo.
Building on this cultural foundation, Ibaraki actively engages in cultural activities such as the Tsukuba International Music Festival, prominent art exhibitions at modern art museums, and the Prefectural Arts Festival.
In recent years, there has been a widespread recognition among the residents of the importance of mental enrichment and quality of life. Many residents have become actively involved in cultural activities. In response to this trend, the prefecture established the Ibaraki Cultural Promotion Guidelines in 1991 and set up the Cultural Promotion Fund the following year, working towards creating a region rich in new cultural attractions.
This translation covers the historical and cultural aspects of Ibaraki Prefecture, highlighting its heritage, significant cultural figures, and recent developments in cultural activities. If you need any further assistance or additional translations, feel free to ask!