Things To Do
in Mito
Mito, located in Ibaraki Prefecture just northeast of Tokyo, blends historic heritage with verdant gardens and modern culture. It is home to Kairakuen, one of Japan's three most celebrated landscape gardens, and the Tokugawa Museum. From Mito, the Ibaraki coast and seaside towns like Oarai are easy day trips, offering beaches, aquariums, and fresh seafood.
The city is known for natto and seasonal produce, welcoming visitors with a relaxed, authentic Japanese city experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Kairakuen Garden, where you can stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds and admire the plum blossoms if in season. Visit the Mito Castle ruins nearby, where you can walk along the remnants of the stone walls and learn about the history of the city. Take some time to enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local cafe, savoring fresh fish and rice.
After lunch, head to the Art Tower Mito, a striking modern structure that houses contemporary art exhibitions and offers stunning views from its observation deck. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, where you can find quaint shops selling local crafts and snacks. Don't miss the Mito City Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and history through various exhibits.
As the sun sets, make your way to the nearby lake for a peaceful evening walk along the water's edge. Enjoy a dinner of local delicacies at a riverside izakaya, where you can sample dishes made with fresh ingredients from the region. Cap off your day with a visit to a local onsen, soaking in the therapeutic hot springs while reflecting on your experiences.
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Nairiku-ji Temple, where you can participate in a morning prayer session and experience the serene atmosphere of this spiritual site. Wander around the temple grounds, taking in the beautiful architecture and the tranquil gardens that surround it. Don't forget to take part in the traditional ritual of cleansing at the water basin before entering the main hall.
After a peaceful morning, make your way to the nearby Kōrin-ji Temple, renowned for its stunning hydrangea gardens, especially if you visit during the summer months. Enjoy a simple lunch at a local soba restaurant, where you can try hand-made noodles topped with seasonal ingredients. Spend the afternoon meditating in the gardens, soaking in the beauty and tranquility that surrounds you.
As dusk approaches, head back to the city for a traditional kaiseki dinner, where you will enjoy multiple courses presented beautifully. The meal will showcase seasonal ingredients and local specialties, giving you a true taste of Mito's culinary culture. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, enjoying the peaceful vibe of the city at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $700-1100 |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🍣Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and garden scenes
- Excellent day-trip access to nature and coastline
- Safe, clean, and easy to navigate with good public transport
- Limited nightlife compared to Tokyo or Osaka
- English signage may be limited outside major sites
- Crowds can swell around Kairakuen and plum blossom season
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you very much
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Mito
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Japan’s top three gardens; stunning plums and ponds, especially during early spring.
Historic architecture and serene garden corners ideal for atmospheric shots.
A striking modern landmark with bold lines; good for cityscape and architectural photography.
Waterfront promenade with reflections and tranquil sunsets; a versatile spot for landscape shots.
Food in Mito
Mito Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Natto served over steamed rice with scallions, a staple of Ibaraki meals.
Must-Try!
Silky sesame tofu often served with a light soy-based sauce; a regional delicacy in some eateries.
A local take on curry rice featuring seasonal vegetables and miso-forward accents found in some eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market near Mito Station offering fresh produce, natto samples, and street snacks.
Local market area with stalls selling seasonal vegetables and ready-to-eat bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A gentle bow is a standard greeting and sign of respect.
Remove shoes in homes and many traditional accommodations; use provided slippers.
Speak quietly on trains and in public spaces; line up and queue orderly; handle trash properly as most places don’t have abundant bins.
Safety
Tipping in Mito
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is expected and included in prices in most cases. A small bow and thank you are sufficient.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are common in urban areas; IC cards (e.g., Suica, PASMO) are convenient for transit; mobile payments are increasingly accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Plum blossoms and early sakura; comfortable temperatures and plenty of festival atmosphere around Kairakuen.
Warm, humid days with occasional rain; ideal for outdoor parks and seaside day trips, but stay hydrated and plan for typhoon season.
Pleasant temps and vibrant foliage in parks and along rivers; great for photography and long walks.
Cool to cold with occasional light snow; indoor attractions shine and there are often quiet, peaceful city scenes.
Mito at Night
Hiking in Mito
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with scenic views; accessible within a couple of hours from Mito.
Airports
How to reach Mito by plane.
Regional airport near Omit, offering domestic flights; accessible from Mito by train and bus routes.
Major international gateway; about 1.5–2.5 hours by express train or bus from Mito.
Convenient urban airport; roughly 2 hours by rail from Mito.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Parks, museums, and safe streets make Mito family-friendly, with ample day-trip options nearby.
Student presence supports a range of affordable cafes and study-friendly spaces around the station.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in schools and local clubs throughout the prefecture.
Widely played in communities and youth teams; local leagues operate seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mito.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Japan, vegetarian options can be limited; look for dishes labeled yasai or ask for tofu/vegetable-based meals; some places can accommodate with notice.