Things To Do
in Ryūgasaki

Ryūgasaki is a scenic city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. The city is surrounded by lush greenery and has a number of historic sites, making it a charming getaway from the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Renowned for its agricultural production, particularly strawberries, Ryūgasaki offers a unique blend of rural charm and urban convenience.

Visitors can enjoy local festivals and traditional crafts while experiencing the warmth of Japanese hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Ryūgasaki City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic Katori Shrine, known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya where you can sample various Japanese dishes and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a stroll through the picturesque strawberry farms and enjoy some strawberry picking.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Ryūgasaki Castle ruins and take in the panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Relax at a local onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen$8
🍓Strawberry Dessert$5
Coffee$3
🚌Bus Fare$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seasonal fruits.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may require some planning.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Ryūgasaki

Visit one of these nice places.

Ryūgasaki Castle Ruins

Capture stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape from the castle's elevated site.

Katori Shrine

Photograph the shrine's traditional architecture set against a backdrop of beautiful cherry blossoms in spring.

Strawberry Fields

Vibrant fields of strawberries make for colorful and delightful photo opportunities during the harvest season.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ryūgasaki

Ryūgasaki is a food lover's paradise with its diverse culinary offerings, particularly its famous strawberries.

Ryūgasaki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Strawberry Daifuku

A sweet rice cake filled with fresh strawberries and red bean paste, a must-try delicacy.

Must-Try!

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served cold or warm, often accompanied by dipping sauce or broth.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ryūgasaki Fruit Park

A market where you can buy fresh fruits, including the famous strawberries, and enjoy street food vendors selling local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ryūgasaki has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are cool, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F), and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in public spaces and avoid loud conversations, especially in quiet areas.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always take off your shoes when entering homes, temples, and certain traditional accommodations.

Polite Greetings

Use polite greetings such as 'Konnichiwa' (Hello) and bow slightly when meeting someone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ryūgasaki is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded areas and keep your belongings secure. In case of natural disasters, such as earthquakes, familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and evacuation routes.

Tipping in Ryūgasaki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Japan; excellent service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in many establishments; consider using a Suica card for convenient public transport payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; it's a great time for strawberry picking and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with vibrant fall foliage, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall; explore warm indoor attractions and local hot springs.

Nightlife Guide

Ryūgasaki at Night

Ryūgasaki offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a few izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Most nightlife activities revolve around socializing over food and drinks, with locals enjoying after-work gatherings. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of larger cities, it provides a cozy atmosphere to unwind and experience local culture.

Hiking in Ryūgasaki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Tsukuba Trail

A well-maintained trail leading to the summit of Mount Tsukuba, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience local flora and fauna.

Kitaibaraki Hiking Trail

A scenic trail along the coast, providing opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Airports

How to reach Ryūgasaki by plane.

Narita International Airport

Located about 40 km from Ryūgasaki, Narita International is the nearest major airport, serving numerous international flights and providing access to the city via train and bus services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ryūgasaki is a relatively walkable city with many attractions within a short distance. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and there are sidewalks along most roads. However, some areas may require public transport to reach, especially the outskirts and rural attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Japanese citizens, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community ties.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to experience the local culture, food, and natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a beloved sport in Japan, and local teams often attract enthusiastic supporters.

Soccer

Soccer is growing in popularity, with local clubs and schools participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Ryūgasaki are generally manageable, with moderate vehicle density. Public transportation options include buses and trains that connect to nearby cities. Bicycles are also a popular mode of transport, and the city has designated bike lanes for safer cycling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ryūgasaki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask about fish-based ingredients in sauces.

Gluten-Free

Soba noodles can be made from gluten-free buckwheat, but always verify with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Ryūgasaki is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119. For non-Japanese speakers, some hospitals may have English-speaking staff, but it's advisable to have a translator or use a translation app for effective communication.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide