Things To Do
in Kasumigaura

Kasumigaura is a scenic city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, known for its beautiful lake, historical sites, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It features Kasumigaura Lake, Japan's second-largest lake, which is perfect for water sports and fishing. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with several shrines and temples that showcase the local history.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while exploring the natural beauty and vibrant community of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Kasumigaura Lake for a relaxing walk along the waterfront and enjoy the serene views. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboat for a few hours.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kasumigaura Museum to learn about the local history and culture, followed by lunch at a nearby café that offers traditional Japanese dishes.

evening
:

Finish the day with a stroll through the Kasumigaura Park, where you can enjoy the sunset views over the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin your day with an early hike at the nearby Mito City Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and seasonal flowers.

afternoon
:

Head to a local food market to sample street food and shop for local handicrafts. Try some fresh seafood or seasonal produce.

evening
:

Explore the local izakayas for dinner, where you can experience the vibrant nightlife and indulge in various Japanese dishes and drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen$10
🚌Local Bus Fare$2
🏨Mid-range Hotel$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery with outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood
  • Limited English-speaking options
  • Public transport may be infrequent in rural areas
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities
  • "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 Kasumigaura

Visit one of these nice places.

Kasumigaura Lake

Capture stunning sunrises and sunsets over the lake, with reflections on the water providing a picturesque backdrop.

Kasumigaura Shrine

Featuring beautiful architecture and serene surroundings, this shrine is perfect for capturing traditional Japanese culture.

Mito City Park

Known for its seasonal flowers, particularly cherry blossoms in spring, this park offers breathtaking views and vibrant colors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kasumigaura

Kasumigaura offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional Japanese flavors.

Kasumigaura Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ibaraki Soba

A type of buckwheat noodle that is served cold with dipping sauce or hot in soup, known for its hearty texture and rich flavor.

Must-Try!

Kasumigaura Fish

Freshwater fish from Kasumigaura Lake, often grilled or served as sashimi, highlighting the local fishing heritage.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kasumigaura Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, fish, and handmade goods, where you can also find delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kasumigaura experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, averaging 27-32°C (81-90°F), while winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures around 0-10°C (32-50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring mild temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful Greetings

Bowing is a common way to greet and show respect. Always greet people politely, especially when entering homes or businesses.

Shoes Off Indoors

It's customary to remove your shoes when entering homes and some traditional establishments. Look for signs or ask if you're unsure.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public transport and public areas to respect the tranquility of the surroundings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kasumigaura is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for ambulance services.

Tipping in Kasumigaura

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as part of the experience. Instead, show appreciation through polite phrases.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places. ATMs are available, but ensure they accept foreign cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with beautiful cherry blossoms blooming, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Hot and humid conditions prevail, ideal for water sports and enjoying local festivals. Be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant colors in the parks.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall. While it's less crowded, it's a perfect time to visit hot springs nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Kasumigaura at Night

Kasumigaura boasts a laid-back nightlife scene with cozy izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, allowing visitors to enjoy local drinks, including sake and shochu, alongside delicious food. Live music and seasonal festivals add to the vibrant evening ambiance, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Kasumigaura

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tsukuba Mountain Trail

A popular hiking trail offering stunning views of the surrounding area and a variety of flora and fauna along the path.

Sakuragawa River Trail

A scenic riverside hike that is particularly beautiful in spring when cherry blossoms bloom along the banks.

Airports

How to reach Kasumigaura by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Kasumigaura, Narita is the primary international airport serving the region, offering connections to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kasumigaura is a walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly around the lake and city center. Visitors can easily explore local attractions on foot, although public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Families

Kasumigaura is home to many local families who participate in community activities and preserve the cultural heritage of the area.

Tourists

The region attracts tourists interested in outdoor activities and cultural experiences, particularly those drawn to the natural beauty of Kasumigaura Lake.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams often playing in community parks and schools, fostering a strong local culture around the sport.

Fishing

Given the proximity to Kasumigaura Lake, fishing is a popular recreational activity, attracting both locals and tourists to the water.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kasumigaura is generally manageable, with a mix of cars and bicycles on the roads. Public transportation includes local buses that connect various parts of the city, although schedules may vary, especially on weekends. Biking is a popular mode of transport due to the flat terrain and scenic routes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kasumigaura.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with the staff as some dishes may contain fish or meat-based dashi.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; however, soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat are usually safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Kasumigaura is reliable, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical staff can communicate in basic English. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide