Hanjou gasa have been made in Namegata, Ibaraki Prefecture, since the Edo period. Woven from rush grass and bamboo strips, they provide shade and protection from the rain and rain, and are also believed to ward off evil and disasters. Their light weight makes them comfortable for people working in the fields. Hanjou gasa are made entirely by hand, and great patience and skill is required, as each one takes two hours to make. Today, just one person is carrying on the tradition of making these special hats.