Things To Do
in Chikusei

Chikusei is a charming city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich agricultural heritage and beautiful rural landscapes. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and rice fields, providing a peaceful escape from urban life. Chikusei is also home to several historical sites and cultural landmarks that reflect its deep-rooted traditions.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of nature, history, and local cuisine in this picturesque location.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Chikusei
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historical Joraku-ji Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Chikusei Agricultural Park where you can enjoy seasonal fruit picking and learn about local farming practices.

evening
:

Conclude your day at a local izakaya for dinner, where you can taste various Japanese dishes in a lively setting.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a stroll along the Kinugawa River, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History to gain insight into the region's past and cultural heritage.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing dinner at a local sushi restaurant, savoring fresh seafood from the region.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🥦Vegetable Plate$10
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent as in larger cities.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to major urban centers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "おいしい" - Delicious
  • "はい" - Yes

Places to Visit in Chikusei

Visit one of these nice places.

Joraku-ji Temple

A stunning historical temple surrounded by cherry blossoms, perfect for capturing serene moments.

Kinugawa River

Offers picturesque views of the river, especially during sunset, creating a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Chikusei Agricultural Park

Capture the vibrant colors of seasonal crops and flowers in this expansive park.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chikusei

Chikusei offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors can explore a variety of traditional Japanese dishes and street food that highlight the region's agricultural bounty.

Chikusei Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Chikusei Udon

Thick, chewy noodles served in a flavorful broth, often topped with seasonal vegetables.

Must-Try!

Goya Champuru

A stir-fry dish featuring bitter melon, tofu, and pork, popular in local cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chikusei Farmers Market

A vibrant market showcasing fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade goods.

Kawaguchi Street Food Stalls

Offers a range of delicious street foods, including yakitori and sweet treats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chikusei experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F), and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

Bowing is a common greeting; a slight bow is appreciated when meeting locals.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and other communal areas to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chikusei is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical assistance.

Tipping in Chikusei

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Japan; good service is expected without extra gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards; be prepared for some smaller establishments to operate cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor events.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; enjoy hot local dishes and winter festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Chikusei at Night

Chikusei features a relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of izakayas, pubs, and karaoke bars where locals gather to unwind after work. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to join in. Local events and festivals also add to the vibrant nightlife, offering live music and performances on weekends.

Hiking in Chikusei

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Tsukuba Trail

A well-marked trail offering stunning views from the summit, suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Shirakawa River Trail

A scenic riverside trail perfect for walking or cycling, surrounded by nature and local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Chikusei by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located about 80 km from Chikusei, this major international airport offers flights to and from various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chikusei is a relatively walkable city, especially in residential areas and near local attractions. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked. However, some rural areas may require a vehicle for easier access to attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Chikusei has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's overall demographic trends.

Young Families

The city is home to many young families attracted by its peaceful environment and good schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Japan, and local teams often draw large crowds during the season.

Soccer

Soccer is gaining popularity, with local clubs competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chikusei is generally light, making driving and cycling pleasant. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city, though schedules may vary. Taxis are also available but may be less frequent during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chikusei.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check with staff to ensure no fish-based ingredients are used.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes can be found; inquire at restaurants for alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Chikusei is good, with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical personnel can communicate in basic English. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide