Things To Do
in Hitachiomiya

Hitachiomiya is a charming city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. The city is nestled between mountains and rivers, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hitachiomiya boasts several historical sites, including ancient shrines and temples that reflect traditional Japanese architecture.

Additionally, the area is famous for its local cuisine and vibrant cultural festivals throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Hitachiomiya
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic Oarai Isosaki Shrine, known for its scenic coastal views and traditional architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Hitachiomiya City Museum to learn about the local history and heritage, then explore the beautiful parks nearby for a leisurely walk.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, trying some regional dishes, and finish the night with a stroll through the city to soak in the atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your morning with a hike at the nearby Mount Kaba, offering breathtaking views and lush landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit a local food market where you can sample fresh produce and homemade snacks, followed by lunch at a nearby ramen shop.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a traditional onsen (hot spring) for relaxation and a unique dining experience featuring local delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Ramen$8
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🥡Takeout Meal$10
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited English signage and language barriers.
  • Some areas may be less accessible without a car.
  • Fewer nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "助けてください" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Hitachiomiya

Visit one of these nice places.

Oarai Isosaki Shrine

An iconic shrine located by the sea, renowned for its stunning torii gate perched on the shore, offering magnificent sunset views.

Mount Kaba

A popular hiking spot that provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, especially breathtaking during cherry blossom season.

Hitachiomiya River Park

A tranquil park along the river, perfect for capturing serene nature shots, especially during autumn when the leaves change color.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hitachiomiya

Hitachiomiya offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing local flavors and traditional Japanese cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds.

Hitachiomiya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Miso Nikomi Udon

A hearty noodle dish cooked in a rich miso broth, often served with seasonal vegetables and meat.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold or hot, often accompanied by a dipping sauce or in a hot broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hitachiomiya Morning Market

A vibrant market where local vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and handmade snacks, providing an authentic taste of the region.

Takoyaki Stalls

Street vendors selling takoyaki, a popular octopus-filled snack, often enjoyed as a quick bite while exploring the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hitachiomiya experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with occasional snowfall, while summers can be hot and humid. Spring brings mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and cherry blossom viewing. Autumn is characterized by cool weather and stunning foliage, making it an attractive time for visitors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting in Japan; a slight bow is polite when meeting someone or thanking them.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quietness in Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume when speaking in public is appreciated, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hitachiomiya is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. In case of emergencies, the local police and medical services can be reached easily.

Tipping in Hitachiomiya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can sometimes be seen as rude; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Experience the beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom, particularly around parks and historical sites, attracting many visitors.

Summer

Expect warm weather and several local festivals, ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and traditional events.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage, making it a perfect time for hiking and photography, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

While temperatures can drop, the region occasionally experiences light snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape.

Nightlife Guide

Hitachiomiya at Night

Hitachiomiya offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of izakayas, karaoke bars, and quiet cafes. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to mingle with locals. Many establishments close by midnight, so it's best to start your night early. Seasonal festivals also provide vibrant evening activities with traditional performances and food stalls.

Hiking in Hitachiomiya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shirakawa-go Trail

A scenic trail leading to the famous Shirakawa-go village, known for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses and beautiful landscapes.

Kakusenkei Gorge

An easy hike along the gorge that offers stunning views of waterfalls and lush greenery, ideal for families and casual hikers.

Airports

How to reach Hitachiomiya by plane.

Ibaraki Airport

Located about 50 km from Hitachiomiya, Ibaraki Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections. It is the nearest airport, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hitachiomiya is a walkable city with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks, making it easy to explore by foot. Public transport is also available for longer distances, but walking is a pleasant way to experience the city's charm.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Hitachiomiya has a growing population of young families attracted by the city's quality of life and educational opportunities.

Retirees

The city also has a significant number of retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and community activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Hitachiomiya, with local teams often playing in community leagues and schools.

Soccer

Soccer also enjoys popularity, with local clubs and schools participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Hitachiomiya are generally manageable, with light congestion during peak hours. Public transportation includes buses and trains that connect the city to neighboring areas, making it easy to travel without a car. Biking is also a popular option for getting around, with dedicated bike lanes available in many parts of the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hitachiomiya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian choices, though it's advisable to check for fish-based ingredients commonly used in broths.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine includes a lot of wheat, soba noodles made from buckwheat can be a gluten-free alternative.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hitachiomiya is accessible and of high quality. There are several clinics and hospitals in the area, providing both general and specialized medical care. For non-Japanese speakers, larger hospitals often have English-speaking staff, and it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide