Kawamata

Kawamata is a Japanese surname and a place name.

As a Surname:

Kawamata (川俣) is a relatively common Japanese surname. The name literally translates to "river crotch" or "river fork," likely referring to a geographic feature near where the family originated. Like many Japanese surnames, variations in the kanji used to write the name may exist.

As a Place Name:

• Kawamata, Fukushima: This is a town located in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its silk production, particularly Kawamata silk, a fine and lightweight textile. The town suffered damage from the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami and the subsequent Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.
• The name may also refer to smaller localities or geographic features throughout Japan sharing the same "river crotch" description. In these instances, it will typically be used in conjunction with a more specific place name.