Things To Do
in Kamisu

Kamisu is a peaceful coastal city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural scenery. The city is famous for its agricultural products, particularly rice and seafood, making it a delightful destination for food lovers. Kamisu also boasts various historical sites, including temples and shrines, reflecting the region's traditional roots.

With its proximity to Tokyo and Narita, it serves as a convenient getaway for those seeking tranquility away from the bustling metropolis.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Kamisu's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Kamisu City History Museum, where you can learn about the city's past and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Head over to the famous Ibaraki Kasumigaura Ohashi Bridge for scenic views, followed by lunch at a local seafood restaurant.

evening
:

Visit the Kasumigaura Lake for a peaceful evening stroll and watch the sunset over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at the nearby Mount Tsukuba, known for its stunning views and lush greenery.

afternoon
:

After the hike, enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch at a local eatery specializing in soba noodles.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a relaxing soak in a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after your adventurous day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen$8
🍚Rice Ball$2
🍺Local Beer$5
Coffee$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers may exist for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation may not be as extensive as in urban centers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Kamisu

Visit one of these nice places.

Kasumigaura Lake

A picturesque lake offering stunning landscapes, especially at sunrise and sunset, ideal for capturing nature's beauty.

Ibaraki Kasumigaura Ohashi Bridge

An iconic bridge that provides a unique viewpoint for capturing the surrounding scenery and is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season.

Tsukuba Mountain

Famous for its hiking trails and panoramic views, the mountain is a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kamisu

Kamisu offers a unique culinary experience influenced by its coastal location and agricultural heritage, making it a haven for food enthusiasts.

Kamisu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Saba Sushi

A local specialty featuring mackerel sushi that's fresh and delicious, typically served with pickled ginger.

Must-Try!

Ibaraki Rice

Renowned for its quality, Ibaraki rice is often served as a side dish and is a staple in local homes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kamisu Farmers Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, seafood, and handmade goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kamisu experiences a temperate climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery, while summer can be hot and humid with occasional rainfall. Winters are cold, but not severe, often bringing crisp air and clear skies. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with the most precipitation occurring during the rainy season in June and early July.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet people with a bow and use polite language; saying 'arigato' (thank you) is essential.

Shoes Off Indoors

It’s customary to remove shoes before entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas, especially on public transport, to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kamisu is considered a safe city with low crime rates; however, standard travel precautions should be observed. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places, and to secure personal belongings. Natural disasters like typhoons can occur, so check the weather forecasts during your visit.

Tipping in Kamisu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected and included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many restaurants and stores; it's advisable to carry some yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom, making it perfect for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid weather is typical; enjoy local festivals and fireworks displays near the lakeside.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall colors create stunning landscapes, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Winter

While temperatures drop, the area experiences less tourist traffic, making it a quiet time to explore local culture and traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Kamisu at Night

Kamisu's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few izakayas (Japanese pubs) and karaoke bars providing a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. The scene is more about socializing over drinks and enjoying traditional Japanese food rather than a bustling club scene. There are also seasonal festivals and events that light up the evenings, providing cultural experiences in the city.

Hiking in Kamisu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Tsukuba Trails

These trails offer various routes for all levels of hikers, with scenic views and opportunities to explore local wildlife.

Kasumigaura Lakeside Trail

A flat, easy trail perfect for a leisurely hike or bike ride, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature.

Airports

How to reach Kamisu by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Kamisu, this major airport offers international and domestic flights, making it the primary entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kamisu is moderately walkable, particularly in its downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. However, some attractions may require a short bus or bicycle ride to reach, especially those outside the city center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Kamisu has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's overall demographic trend, which influences local services and community activities.

Young Families

Young families are also a prominent demographic, benefiting from the city's safe environment and access to educational resources.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, and local teams have a strong following, with games often drawing large crowds.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with various local leagues and schools fostering talent and enthusiasm among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kamisu is generally manageable, with roads being less congested than in larger cities. Public transportation options include buses, which connect various parts of the city and nearby areas. Biking is also a popular way to get around, especially along scenic routes near the lakeside.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kamisu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While seafood is predominant, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including seasonal vegetable tempura.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but some establishments provide rice-based dishes that can accommodate dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Kamisu is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and most medical facilities have English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while visiting Japan.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide