Things To Do
in Ushiku
Ushiku is a city located in the Ibaraki Prefecture of Japan. It is known for having the tallest statue in Japan, the Ushiku Daibutsu, which stands at over 300 feet tall. The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens where visitors can enjoy nature and scenic views.
Ushiku is a peaceful and welcoming city that offers a mix of traditional Japanese culture and modern amenities.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest statues in the world. Enjoy the serene gardens surrounding the statue and take plenty of photos.
Visit the nearby Ushiku Nature Park to enjoy a stroll through nature. Pack a picnic lunch and relax by the tranquil ponds.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a local izakaya to experience authentic Japanese cuisine. Take a leisurely evening walk around the park to enjoy the night sky.
Spend the morning hiking the trails at the Ushiku Nature Park. The fresh air and beautiful scenery will energize you for the day ahead.
After your hike, visit the Nature Museum to learn about the local flora and fauna. Participate in interactive exhibits for a fun educational experience.
Dine at a riverside restaurant, enjoying the sunset views. Relax and reflect on your day while enjoying the peaceful sounds of the river.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical significance, with attractions such as the Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including parks and gardens that are ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Close proximity to Tokyo, making it a convenient location for day trips and access to urban amenities.
- A friendly and welcoming community with a variety of local festivals and events throughout the year.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities, which might make it challenging to navigate without a car.
- Less international exposure and fewer amenities that cater specifically to tourists or expatriates.
- Potential language barrier for non-Japanese speakers, as English may not be widely spoken among locals.
- Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas, which may limit nightlife and culinary experiences.
Best Activities in Ushiku
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Amabiki Kannon, a scenic spot with a beautiful view and a famous statue of the goddess Kannon.
Explore the Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest statues in the world, offering an impressive and unique cultural experience.
Enjoy a visit to Ushiku Chateau, a picturesque winery offering wine tastings and beautiful outdoor surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ushiku with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ushiku
Visit one of these nice places.
The Ushiku Daibutsu is a towering statue of Buddha and offers a stunning panorama of the surrounding area.
Ushiku Central Park provides beautiful landscapes, including cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, making it an ideal location for photography.
Lake Kasumigaura offers picturesque views with opportunities for capturing scenic sunsets and serene waterscapes.
Food in Ushiku
Ushiku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A specialty of Ushiku, Saba-zushi is a type of sushi featuring pickled mackerel and vinegared rice. It can be enjoyed at traditional sushi restaurants such as Sushikyu Ushiku Ekimae.
Must-Try!
Gyutan, or grilled beef tongue, is a beloved dish in Ushiku. Head to Gyutan Street near Ushiku Station to savor this local delicacy at renowned establishments like Rikyu and Higashimurayama.
Natto, fermented soybeans known for their strong flavor and unique texture, is a staple breakfast food in Ushiku. Try it at local eateries and markets for an authentic taste of Japanese mornings.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ushiku better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Ushiku Central Market for a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Indulge in delectable takoyaki, yakisoba, and other classic street snacks while immersing yourself in the vibrant market atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ushiku, it's important to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone, showing gratitude, or apologizing.
Before entering someone's home, a traditional inn (ryokan), or certain restaurants, it's customary to remove your shoes at the entrance.
Maintaining a quiet demeanor in public places, such as on public transportation or in restaurants, is considered polite and respectful in Ushiku.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ushiku with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ushiku
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ushiku, Japan, tipping is not a common practice and may even be considered rude in some situations. Service charges are usually included in the bill, and tipping is not expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
Payment in Ushiku, Japan is predominantly cash-based, although credit cards are increasingly accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions, especially in smaller shops and local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ushiku.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ushiku, Japan is during spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, creating a beautiful and picturesque scene. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer (June to August) in Ushiku is hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to experience traditional summer festivals, but it can be uncomfortable for those not used to the heat and humidity.
Autumn (September to November) is another great time to visit Ushiku. The weather is cooler, and the fall foliage turns the landscape into a vibrant display of reds, oranges, and yellows. It's a popular time for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.
Winter (December to February) in Ushiku can be cold, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time for tourism, but visitors can enjoy winter illuminations, hot springs, and seasonal cuisine.
Ushiku at Night
Hiking in Ushiku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park featuring walking trails and natural beauty, ideal for leisurely hikes and enjoying the outdoors.
A picturesque route around Lake Kasumigaura, offering a mix of wooded trails and waterfront views, perfect for hiking and biking.
This open-air museum features hiking trails that allow visitors to explore traditional Japanese buildings and rural landscapes.
Located a bit further away, this park offers extensive trails with beautiful coastal views and fields of seasonal flowers.
A small hill that offers a short hiking trail with a scenic overlook of the surrounding area, perfect for a quick hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ushiku through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ushiku by plane.
The main international airport serving the Tokyo area, located approximately 65 kilometers from Ushiku.
Another major airport serving Tokyo, closer to the city, about 70 kilometers from Ushiku.
A smaller international airport located approximately 28 kilometers from Ushiku, offering limited international flights.
An international airport located in Osaka, about 500 kilometers from Ushiku, serving as a major gateway for international flights.
Located in Nagoya, approximately 370 kilometers from Ushiku, this airport offers numerous international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Ushiku, consisting of native Japanese citizens.
A significant minority group in Ushiku, often consisting of residents with historical ties to Korea.
A growing demographic in Ushiku, including both long-term residents and more recent migrants.
Includes people from various Southeast Asian countries living in the Ushiku area.
Includes individuals from various countries working in Ushiku, often in industries such as technology, education, and hospitality.
Includes non-Japanese individuals who have established long-term residency in Ushiku.
The Soul of Ushiku
Discover the essence of Ushiku through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is a highly popular sport in Japan, and Ushiku is no exception. The local community actively participates in baseball through various leagues and school teams.
Soccer has gained significant traction in Ushiku, with many youth clubs and local teams fostering interest in the sport. The community supports both men's and women's soccer initiatives.
Basketball is widely played at schools and parks in Ushiku. The sport enjoys popularity among the youth and is a common recreational activity.
Traditional martial arts, such as Judo and Karate, are practiced in Ushiku. These disciplines are part of the local culture and are taught in various dojos throughout the city.
Tennis is a popular sport among all age groups in Ushiku, with several public courts available for practice and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ushiku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine heavily features seafood, there are several restaurants and cafes in Ushiku, like Cafe Mamehiko, that cater to vegetarians and vegans with flavorful and satisfying dishes.
For gluten-free options, communicating dietary needs directly to the staff at restaurants is recommended. Many establishments are accommodating and willing to adjust dishes to suit gluten-free requirements.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ushiku with these cultural adventures.
