Ōarai
,Ōarai is a charming coastal town located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its picturesque beaches and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. The town is also famous for its thriving fishing industry, with many fresh seafood markets and restaurants offering delicious local dishes. Ōarai is home to the Kairaku-en Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, featuring beautiful landscapes and historic architecture.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and hiking, making Ōarai a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Eego o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Ocean Explorer
morning
:Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful Ōarai beach and enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Take some time to watch the sunrise and capture stunning photographs.
afternoon
:Head to the Ōarai Aquarium to learn about local marine life and enjoy interactive exhibits. Have a delightful lunch at a seaside café while soaking in the scenic views.
evening
:Visit the Ōarai Marine Tower for breathtaking views of the coastline at sunset. Dine at a local restaurant specializing in fresh seafood for a true taste of the area.
Seafood Delicacies
morning
:Start your culinary adventure at the Ōarai Fish Market, where you can sample fresh sashimi and other seafood delights. Get an early start to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
afternoon
:Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Japanese seafood dishes. This hands-on experience will equip you with new skills while you savor your creations.
evening
:Enjoy dinner at a popular local izakaya, pairing your meal with regional sake. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals in this bustling setting.
Highlights
Good
- Scenic coastal views and beautiful beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Local seafood and traditional Japanese cuisine
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing
Bad
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Some amenities and services may be less accessible
- Can be less vibrant and lively than urban areas
- Seasonal weather variations may affect tourism
- Potential language barriers for non-Japanese speakers
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Ōarai Isosaki Shrine
Visit the iconic shrine located near the seaside, known for its beautiful torii gate that stands in the water, providing a picturesque spot for photography and exploration.
Oarai Marine Tower
Enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding areas from this observation tower, which is a great spot for sightseeing and taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery.
Hitachi Seaside Park
Located nearby, this park is famous for its seasonal flowers and offers beautiful walking paths, cycling routes, and scenic picnic areas, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Ōarai Surf Beach
Experience the thrill of surfing or simply relax by the beach. With its waves and beautiful sands, it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Fishing at Ōarai Port
Engage in fishing activities at Ōarai Port, where you can experience local fishing culture and enjoy fresh seafood caught right off the coast.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Ōarai with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ōarai Isosaki Shrine
Offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque torii gate at the water's edge, creating a perfect photo opportunity.
Ōarai Sun Beach
A beautiful sandy beach offering a panoramic view of the ocean. It's a great spot for capturing sunset or sunrise photos.
Ōarai Marine Tower
A lookout tower providing a bird's-eye view of the surrounding area, including the harbor and coastline, making it an excellent spot for photography enthusiasts.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ika Meshi
A savory dish made of squid stuffed with seasoned rice, a local specialty. Can be found at local seafood restaurants like Ika Meshi Kamaboko.
Must-Try!
Iwashi Senbei
Grilled sardine crackers, a popular snack sold at stalls near the Ōarai Isosaki Shrine and local markets.
Kaki Gohan
A flavorful rice dish mixed with fresh local oysters, available at restaurants along the waterfront such as Oarai Fukuju.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ōarai better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Ōarai Isosaki Shrine Market
A bustling market where visitors can sample and purchase local seafood, snacks, and souvenirs. Various street food stalls offer freshly prepared delicacies like grilled seafood skewers and Iwashi Senbei.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Bow as a Greeting
In Ōarai and throughout Japan, bowing is a common form of greeting. A gentle bow can show respect and politeness. It’s important to understand the depth of the bow can indicate the level of respect.
Remove Shoes Indoors
When entering homes, traditional inns, or certain restaurants, it is customary to remove your shoes. Look for signs or follow the lead of locals to know when it’s appropriate to take off your footwear.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection
Public displays of affection, such as hugging or kissing, are generally frowned upon in Japan. It’s best to keep your interactions discreet to respect local customs and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ōarai with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Ōarai, as in many parts of Japan, tipping is generally not practiced and may be considered rude. Instead, excellent service is considered standard and is built into the cost of goods and services. Customers show appreciation through polite behavior, not monetary tips.
Payment
Payments in Ōarai can be made using cash, which is still widely accepted, although card payments are becoming more common, especially in larger establishments. Many restaurants, shops, and hotels accept major credit cards. It's also common to see the use of electronic payment apps, but cash remains predominant, particularly in smaller businesses.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ōarai.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to see cherry blossoms in bloom and enjoy mild weather
Summer
Ideal for beach activities and water sports due to warm temperatures
Autumn
Great for enjoying fall foliage and participating in harvest festivals
Winter
Perfect for visiting hot springs and experiencing winter illuminations
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Oarai Fishing Port
While primarily a fishing port, the area around Oarai features coastal trails that provide scenic views and opportunities for light hiking along the beaches.
Oarai Seaside Park
This park offers walking paths and trails perfect for hiking while enjoying views of the ocean and natural landscapes.
Ibaraki Nature Museum Trails
Located just a short drive from Ōarai, these trails offer hiking routes through beautiful nature settings, suitable for all levels.
Mt. Katsutadai
A small mountain close to Ōarai, it features hiking routes where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Sakuragawa River Trails
These picturesque river trails are ideal for hiking and walking, providing a peaceful environment surrounded by nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ōarai through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Ōarai by plane.
Narita International Airport (NRT)
Located approximately 80 km east of Ōarai, Narita is one of the major international airports serving Tokyo and surrounding areas.
Tokyo International Airport (Haneda) (HND)
Situated about 100 km southwest of Ōarai, Haneda is closer to central Tokyo and is one of the busiest airports in the world.
Ibaraki Airport (IBR)
Located approximately 30 km northwest of Ōarai, Ibaraki Airport serves as a regional airport with some international flights.
Kansai International Airport (KIX)
Although farther away, about 500 km west of Ōarai, Kansai International Airport is a major international gateway to the Osaka region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Japanese
The predominant demographic group in Ōarai, consisting mainly of native Japanese citizens.
Tourists
Visitors from different regions of Japan and abroad, usually during vacation seasons, contributing to local economy and culture.
Foreign Residents
A smaller group of long-term residents from various countries residing in Ōarai for work or family reasons.
Elderly Population
Older adults, making up a significant portion of the demographic, often involved in community activities.
Youth
Young people, including students and working-age individuals, typically representing a smaller percentage of the population.
The Soul of Ōarai
Discover the essence of Ōarai through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Surfing
Ōarai is known for its beautiful beaches and surfing spots, making it a popular activity among locals and tourists.
Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a common sport played in the sandy areas of Ōarai, particularly during the summer months.
Baseball
Baseball is widely popular in Japan, and Ōarai is no exception, with local teams and school competitions.
Soccer
Soccer has a strong following in Japan, and Ōarai hosts various local matches and youth leagues.
Fishing
Given its coastal location, fishing is a beloved pastime in Ōarai, attracting both experienced anglers and beginners.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While the local cuisine primarily focuses on seafood, vegetarian and vegan options can be found at some restaurants and cafes. Cafe Nakanoshima, for instance, offers a selection of plant-based dishes and beverages.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten-free dietary requirements may find suitable options at seafood restaurants and izakayas by communicating their needs to the staff who can often accommodate such requests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ōarai with these cultural adventures.