Ibaraki

Day Trips

Start your day with a visit to the famous Hitachi Seaside Park, known for its seasonal flowers blooming vibrantly. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, enjoying the stunning views of the Flower Hills.

After lunch, head to the Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, famous for its plum blossoms. Spend time exploring the serene pathways and the historic tea house.

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor traditional Ibaraki cuisine. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and perhaps try some craft beer brewed in the region.

Visit Mito Castle ruins in the morning, a site rich with history and surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring. There's a small museum where you can learn about the castle's past.

Explore the nearby Kairakuen Park after lunch, especially famous for its many plum trees. This park is a great location for photography and a peaceful picnic.

Dine at a traditional kaiseki restaurant in Mito and enjoy a multi-course meal showcasing seasonal ingredients. The elegant presentation reflects the craftsmanship of Japanese cuisine.

Start your morning at the Oarai Marine Tower, where you can get breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a great spot to take some scenic photographs and enjoy the fresh sea breeze.

Visit the Oarai Aquarium for an interactive and educational experience with marine life. You can even catch a live sea lion performance!

Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants near the coast. Don't miss the chance to try fresh sushi or tempura while watching the sunset by the sea.

Begin your day with a tranquil hike at Mount Tsukuba, offering breathtaking views from the summit. Take in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the fresh morning air.

After your hike, visit the Tsukuba Space Center to learn about Japan's space exploration efforts. The exhibits are fascinating and interactive, making it suitable for all ages.

Head back to the mountain area for a relaxing onsen experience. Soak in natural hot springs and unwind after an active day.

Visit the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History to dive into the rich culture and history of the region. The exhibits are well-curated and informative.

Spend your afternoon at the Ibaraki Art Museum, which showcases contemporary art from both Japanese and international artists. Take your time enjoying the various installations and artworks.

For dinner, explore a local restaurant that features art-themed dishes, creating a unique dining experience. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while reflecting on your cultural day out.

Kick off your morning with a canoeing experience at the Abukuma River. Paddle through beautiful landscapes while enjoying the tranquility of the water.

After lunch, visit the nearby Kashima Shrine, an important Shinto shrine, showcasing impressive architecture and lush green surroundings. Stroll through the peaceful grounds and participate in local rituals.

End the day with a barbeque at a riverside facility, enjoying grilled meats and local specialties. Share stories by the fire with fellow travelers or locals.

Join a morning farm tour in the Ibaraki countryside, where you can learn about local farming practices. Engage in picking seasonal fruits and vegetables.

After your farming experience, enjoy a farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh produce you harvested. The flavors are delightful and reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Wrap up the day with a visit to a local market to sample and purchase regional delicacies. Engage with local vendors and take home unique souvenirs.

Spend a fun morning at the Sun Beach Oarai, relaxing on the sandy shores or trying beach volleyball. Enjoy the sun and the refreshing ocean waves.

Enjoy a seaside lunch at a beachside café, where you can taste local seafood dishes while enjoying ocean views. Spend the afternoon swimming or sunbathing.

As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the beach. Consider dining at a seafood restaurant nearby to complete your beach day with fresh catches.

Start your day at the Showcase of the History of Transport, home to historic trains and vehicles. Explore various exhibits that showcase Japan’s rich transportation history.

Take a scenic train ride on the Hitachinaka Seaside Railway, enjoying beautiful coastal views. Stop at a few picturesque stations along the way.

Conclude the day by dining at a restaurant near the railway stations, where you can try local dishes. Share experiences with fellow train enthusiasts.

Explore the vibrant city center of Mito, starting with a visit to the Mito Art Tower. This unique architectural structure offers art exhibitions and a great café.

After lunch, discover local shops and boutiques that sell traditional crafts and souvenirs. Take your time browsing and interacting with shop owners.

For dinner, try a Nabe (hot pot) restaurant with friends or family, enjoying the communal dining experience. End the day with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets.