Ibaraki

Overview

Ibaraki, located northeast of Tokyo, is a hidden gem with a wealth of natural and cultural attractions. Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, is particularly stunning during the plum blossom season. Hitachi Seaside Park offers mesmerizing displays of seasonal flowers, from nemophila (baby blue eyes) in spring to fiery red kochia bushes in autumn. The Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world, provides panoramic views from its observation deck. For nature lovers, the Fukuroda Falls, often called one of Japan's top three waterfalls, and Mount Tsukuba offer scenic retreats. Ibaraki is also known for natto (fermented soybeans), a local delicacy that divides opinions but remains a staple of Japanese cuisine.

Areas

Mito

Mito is the capital city of Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is famous for the beautiful Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's top three gardens, and the annual plum blossom festival that takes place there. Mito is also home to the Tokiwa Shrine and several historical landmarks, including the Mito Komon Museum. It is a hub for traditional Japanese culture, offering visitors a chance to explore the historical roots of the region while enjoying the scenic beauty of its parks and gardens.

Hitachi

Hitachi is a city in Ibaraki Prefecture, located on the Pacific coast. It is known for its industrial significance, as the headquarters of the global technology company, Hitachi Ltd., is located here. The city is also known for its beautiful coastline, with beaches such as Oarai and the scenic Hitachi Seaside Park, famous for its seasonal flower displays, particularly the blue nemophila flowers in spring. Hitachi is a blend of modern industry and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique combination of innovation and relaxation.

Tsuchiura

Koga

Ishioka

Yuki

Ryugasaki

Ryugasaki is a city in Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its agriculture, particularly rice farming. The city has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, with many historical landmarks and shrines, such as the Ryugasaki Shrine, which is dedicated to the god of agriculture. The city is also home to several parks, providing recreational opportunities and beautiful nature walks. Ryugasaki has a charming rural atmosphere, offering visitors a peaceful retreat with a taste of traditional Japanese farming culture.

Shimotsuma

Shimotsuma is a city located in the eastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its rich agricultural landscape, especially in rice cultivation. The city is also famous for the annual Shimotsuma Chrysanthemum Festival, which showcases stunning displays of chrysanthemums in various colors. The area is home to several temples and shrines, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Japanese spirituality. Shimotsuma is a peaceful, rural city with a close-knit community and is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat.

Joso

Joso is a city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, that is known for its agricultural production, especially its famous onions. The city has a peaceful rural atmosphere and is home to several historical sites, including old shrines and temples. Joso is located near the Tone River, making it a picturesque place to enjoy nature, especially during the cherry blossom season when the riverbanks are lined with blooming sakura trees. The city is a blend of traditional farming life and modern conveniences, making it a unique spot to visit.

Hitachiota

Takahagi

Kitaibaraki

Kasama

Kasama is a city located in the western part of Ibaraki Prefecture. Known for its pottery, Kasama is home to the renowned Kasama-yaki pottery, which has a history dating back over 400 years. The city hosts the annual Kasama Pottery Festival, attracting visitors from across Japan and beyond. In addition to its pottery heritage, Kasama is also famous for its natural beauty, including Kasama Inari Shrine, a major shrine dedicated to the god of agriculture. The city offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Toride

Toride is a city located in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. Known for its suburban atmosphere, Toride offers a quiet, residential environment with easy access to major urban areas like Tokyo. The city is home to several parks and recreational areas, providing residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Toride is also known for its historical landmarks, including the old Toride Castle ruins, which are a reminder of the region's feudal past. The city is a mix of historical charm and modern suburban life.

Ushiku

Ushiku is a city located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, known for the giant Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the largest bronze statues in the world. The city is also famous for its beautiful parks and rural charm. Ushiku has a rich agricultural tradition and is known for producing high-quality rice, vegetables, and fruits. The city is also home to several temples and historical landmarks, making it a peaceful and culturally rich destination for visitors.

Tsukuba

Tsukuba is a city located in the northeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, renowned for its scientific research and academic institutions, most notably the University of Tsukuba. The city is home to the Tsukuba Space Center and the National Institute for Materials Science, making it an important hub for innovation and technology. Tsukuba is also known for the majestic Mount Tsukuba, a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of the Kanto region. The city seamlessly blends modernity with natural beauty.

Hitachinaka

Hitachinaka is a city located in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its vibrant harbor area and beautiful beaches, such as those found at the Oarai Marine Tower. The city is also famous for its agricultural production, particularly for vegetables and flowers. Hitachinaka is home to the famous Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, which is known for its beautiful plum blossoms. The city combines a lively coastal atmosphere with rich agricultural traditions.

Kashima

Kashima is a city located in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, and is best known for the Kashima Shrine, one of the oldest and most important Shinto shrines in Japan. The city is also famous for its sports culture, particularly the Kashima Antlers, a successful professional soccer team. Kashima is located near the coast, offering beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing and beach sports. The city is a mix of historical significance and modern energy.

Itako

Moriya

Moriya is a city located in the central part of Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its proximity to Tokyo and its rural charm. The city has a mix of urban and rural areas, offering a peaceful environment with easy access to the larger metropolitan areas. Moriya is well-regarded for its agricultural production, especially rice and vegetables, which are locally grown and sold at markets. The city is also home to several parks and recreational areas.

Hitachiomiya

Naka

Chikusei

Bando

Inashiki

Kasumigaura

Kasumigaura is a large lake located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. The lake is known for its natural beauty, offering recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and bird watching. The surrounding area is rich in agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. The Kasumigaura area is also home to historical sites such as ancient shrines and temples, making it a peaceful and scenic destination for visitors.

Sakuragawa

Kamisu

Namegata

Hokota

Hokota, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan’s leading agricultural cities, renowned especially for its production of melons and sweet potatoes. Surrounded by fertile land and blessed with a mild climate, Hokota’s produce is highly regarded across Japan. The city is also known for its seaside charm—stretching along the Pacific Ocean, Hokota features expansive beaches like Otake Beach, ideal for relaxing or surfing. Seasonal roadside stations (Michi-no-Eki) offer fresh local vegetables, fruits, and regional delicacies. With both coastal beauty and abundant harvests, Hokota delivers a relaxing rural experience where visitors can enjoy farm tours, fruit picking, and local cuisine.

Tsukubamirai

Omitama

Ibaraki

Ibaraki is a prefecture located in the Kanto region of Japan, known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastline. The prefecture is famous for its historical sites, such as the Kasama Shrine, as well as its agricultural products, including melons and natto (fermented soybeans). Ibaraki is also home to several universities and research institutions, making it an important hub for education and innovation. The prefecture's proximity to Tokyo makes it an accessible destination for both urban and rural experiences.

Oarai

Oarai is a coastal town located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful beaches along the Pacific Ocean. It is a popular tourist destination, especially for those interested in marine activities like fishing and surfing. The town is also home to the famous Oarai Aquarium, which showcases diverse marine life. Additionally, Oarai is known for its seafood, particularly fresh fish and shellfish, making it a culinary hotspot for food lovers.

Shirosato

Tokai

Daigo

Miho

Ami

Kawachi

Yachiyo

Goka

Tone

What to Eat in Ibaraki

Things to Do in Ibaraki