Things To Do
in Moriya

Moriya is a charming city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere. It is well-connected to major urban areas like Tokyo, making it an ideal spot for a day trip. Moriya hosts various cultural events and festivals that showcase traditional Japanese art and cuisine.

The city is a blend of modernity and tradition, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Japanese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Moriya
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Moriya City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Moriya Park, where you can enjoy the scenery and perhaps have a picnic. Visit the local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned izakaya, experiencing local delicacies, followed by a relaxing evening walk along the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Kasumigaura Lake area, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Soga Shrine, where you can immerse yourself in local spiritual practices and admire the architecture. Grab lunch at a nearby soba noodle shop.

evening
:

End your trip with a visit to a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind and experience traditional Japanese bathing culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
Coffee$3
🍜Ramen Bowl$10
🚍Bus Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Friendly local community
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers
  • Less touristy 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
  • "おいしいです" - It's delicious
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Moriya

Visit one of these nice places.

Moriya Park

A picturesque park known for its seasonal flowers and tranquil ponds.

Soga Shrine

A historic shrine surrounded by lush trees, perfect for capturing traditional architecture.

Kasumigaura Lake

Offers stunning sunsets and reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Culinary Guide

Food in Moriya

Moriya offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Moriya Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

Thin buckwheat noodles served cold with dipping sauce or hot in soup.

Must-Try!

Ibaraki Chicken

Locally-raised chicken known for its rich flavor, often grilled or served as yakitori.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Moriya Market

A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal goods.

Street Food Stalls

Enjoy takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori from various street vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Moriya experiences a humid continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), while winter lows can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite Greetings

Always greet locals with a bow and use polite language.

Shoes Off Indoors

Remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Keep conversations low in public areas; loud behavior is frowned upon.

Safety Guide

Safety

Moriya is considered a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are accessible, and English speakers may be limited.

Tipping in Moriya

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; exceptional service is included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is often preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, attracting many visitors to parks for hanami (flower viewing).

Summer

Warm temperatures and vibrant festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

A beautiful display of fall foliage, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold temperatures, with opportunities for winter sports and visiting hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Moriya at Night

Moriya's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, featuring casual izakayas, karaoke bars, and a few pubs. The atmosphere is friendly, with locals often welcoming visitors. Enjoying a drink while sampling local cuisine is a popular way to spend the evening.

Hiking in Moriya

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Tsukuba

A popular hiking destination with scenic trails and a stunning view from the summit.

Yamizo Mountains

Offer various trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, surrounded by beautiful nature.

Airports

How to reach Moriya by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located approximately 40 km from Moriya, it is one of the major airports serving international flights and provides easy access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moriya is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, public transportation options are also available for further distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Moriya is home to many families, enjoying a suburban lifestyle with access to parks and schools.

Elderly Population

The city has a growing elderly population, with various community programs and services catering to their needs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A highly popular sport in Japan, with local teams often playing in community leagues.

Soccer

Soccer enjoys a significant following, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Moriya has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains that connect to larger cities. Traffic can be moderate, especially during peak hours, but overall, the city is navigable by car or bicycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Moriya.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian-friendly meals, but confirm with staff.

Gluten-Free Options

Soba noodles can be a concern; ask for alternatives like rice dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Moriya is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital offering a range of services. Emergency care is available, and many medical professionals understand basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance for any medical needs.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide