Best Places to Visit in Ibaraki Prefecture | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Ibaraki Prefecture Travel Guide
Quick overview of Ibaraki Prefecture with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
- Ibaraki Prefecture Travel Videos
- Plan Ibaraki Prefecture Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Ibaraki Prefecture
- Hotels Map Of Ibaraki Prefecture
- Tours And Activities In Ibaraki Prefecture
- Food And Drinks To Try In Ibaraki Prefecture
- Best Time To Visit Ibaraki Prefecture
- Flight Calendar For Ibaraki Prefecture
- Transportation To Ibaraki Prefecture
Welcome to Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan! Located on the eastern coast of Honshu Island, this picturesque region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. Known for its stunning coastline, lush mountains, and vibrant cities, Ibaraki Prefecture is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundance of national parks, including the famous Hitachi Seaside Park, where visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of millions of blooming flowers. History buffs can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region by visiting the ancient Kasama Inari Shrine or exploring the historic city of Mito, home to the renowned Kairakuen Garden. With its diverse range of attractions and warm hospitality, Ibaraki Prefecture promises an unforgettable travel experience for all.
Ibaraki Prefecture Travel Videos
We've curated authentic Ibaraki Prefecture videos for inspiration and practical tips. Discover all the amazing places to visit and things to do in Ibaraki Prefecture in 2024. Make your own Itinerary, like a Pro.
![Ibaraki: Ever-Changing Beauty [4K Japan Cinematic]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/VqX7q8MX9sM/hqdefault.jpg)
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Best Places To Visit in Ibaraki Prefecture
1. Mito : Mito is the capital city of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. The most famous of these is Kairakuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The city is also home to the Mito Komon Festival, a traditional event that celebrates the city's history and culture.
2. Tsukuba : Tsukuba is a city located in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its science and technology research centers. The city is home to the Tsukuba Science City, which is a hub for research and development in various fields. Tsukuba is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, including Mount Tsukuba and the Tsukuba Botanical Garden.
3. Hitachi : Hitachi is a city located on the eastern coast of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its beautiful beaches and seafood. The city is home to the Hitachi Seaside Park, which is famous for its seasonal flowers and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Hitachi is also known for its fresh seafood, including squid, tuna, and sea bream.
4. Kashima : Kashima is a city located on the eastern coast of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its soccer team, Kashima Antlers. The city is home to the Kashima Shrine, which is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Japan. Kashima is also known for its beautiful beaches and seafood, including oysters and clams.
5. Tsuchiura : Tsuchiura is a city located in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its beautiful lakes and parks. The city is home to the Kasumigaura Lake, which is the second-largest lake in Japan. Tsuchiura is also known for its beautiful parks, including the Tsuchiura Central Park and the Kijo Park.
6. Koga : Koga is a city located in the northern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its history and culture. The city is home to the Koga Ninja Village, which is a theme park that showcases the history and culture of the ninja. Koga is also known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and lacquerware.
7. Shimotsuma : Shimotsuma is a city located in the southwestern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its traditional crafts and festivals. The city is home to the Shimotsuma Doll Festival, which is a traditional event that showcases the city's handmade dolls. Shimotsuma is also known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and weaving.
8. Ishioka : Ishioka is a city located in the central part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its history and culture. The city is home to the Ishioka Castle Ruins, which is a historical site that dates back to the Edo period. Ishioka is also known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and lacquerware.
9. Ushiku : Ushiku is a city located in the southeastern part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its Buddhist temple, the Ushiku Daibutsu. The temple is home to the world's tallest bronze statue of Buddha, which stands at 120 meters tall. Ushiku is also known for its beautiful parks and gardens, including the Ushiku Nature Sanctuary.
10. Moriya : Moriya is a city located in the central part of Ibaraki Prefecture and is known for its history and culture. The city is home to the Moriya Castle Ruins, which is a historical site that dates back to the Edo period. Moriya is also known for its traditional crafts, including pottery and weaving.
Hotels Map Of Ibaraki Prefecture
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Tours And Activities In Ibaraki Prefecture
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Food & Drinks To Try In Ibaraki Prefecture
1. Mito Natto: Ibaraki Prefecture is famous for its production of natto, a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Mito natto, in particular, is known for its unique flavor and texture. It is often enjoyed as a topping for rice or mixed with other ingredients to create delicious dishes.
2. Hitachi Wagyu Beef: If you're a meat lover, don't miss the opportunity to try Hitachi Wagyu beef. This premium beef is known for its marbling and tenderness, making it incredibly flavorful and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Whether you try it as a steak or in a hot pot, it's sure to be a memorable culinary experience.
3. Kasama Pottery Sake: Ibaraki Prefecture is also known for its sake production, and one of the must-try varieties is Kasama Pottery Sake. This sake is brewed using traditional methods and is aged in pottery jars, giving it a unique flavor profile. It pairs well with a variety of dishes and is a great way to immerse yourself in the local drinking culture.
4. Kasama-Yaki Pottery Tea: Ibaraki Prefecture is famous for its pottery, and one of the best ways to experience it is through Kasama-Yaki Pottery Tea. This tea is served in beautifully crafted pottery cups, enhancing the overall drinking experience. The tea itself is often a high-quality green tea, providing a refreshing and soothing taste.
5. Kasama-Yaki Pottery Soba: Another culinary delight that showcases the local pottery is Kasama-Yaki Pottery Soba. This dish features soba noodles served in a pottery bowl, adding a unique touch to the presentation. The noodles are typically made from buckwheat flour and have a slightly nutty flavor. Enjoy them with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth for a satisfying meal.
6. Kasama-Yaki Pottery Sushi: For sushi lovers, trying Kasama-Yaki Pottery Sushi is a must. This style of sushi is served on beautifully crafted pottery plates, elevating the dining experience. The sushi itself is made with fresh, local ingredients, including seafood caught in the nearby waters. Each bite is a combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
7. Kasama-Yaki Pottery Ice Cream: To satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in Kasama-Yaki Pottery Ice Cream. This unique dessert is served in pottery bowls or cups, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation. The ice cream flavors vary, ranging from traditional options like matcha and black sesame to more adventurous choices like sweet potato or soy sauce. It's a delightful way to end your culinary journey in Ibaraki Prefecture.
8. Hitachi Aki Soba: Another local specialty worth trying is Hitachi Aki Soba. This dish features soba noodles served in a flavorful broth made from dried bonito flakes and soy sauce. It is often topped with green onions, tempura, or other ingredients to enhance the taste. The combination of the chewy noodles and savory broth is a true delight for noodle enthusiasts.
9. Kasama-Yaki Pottery Hot Pot: Warm up during the colder months with Kasama-Yaki Pottery Hot Pot. This hearty dish is made by simmering various ingredients, such as vegetables, tofu, and meat, in a flavorful broth. The hot pot is served in a pottery pot, which helps retain the heat and adds a touch of elegance to the dining experience. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for sharing with friends or family.
10. Mito Senbei: Lastly, don't forget to try Mito Senbei, a type of rice cracker that is a popular snack in Ibaraki Prefecture. These crispy crackers come in various flavors, such as soy sauce, seaweed, or sesame, and are often enjoyed with tea or as a quick snack on the go. They make for a great souvenir to bring back home as well.
Best Time To Visit Ibaraki Prefecture
The best time to visit Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan is during the spring season, specifically in April and May. During this time, the region experiences mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms. The main attractions in Ibaraki, such as the Hitachi Seaside Park and Kairakuen Garden, are at their most vibrant during the spring season. Additionally, autumn is also a great time to visit Ibaraki as the fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop for sightseeing. However, it is important to note that summer in Ibaraki can be quite hot and humid, while winter can be cold with occasional snowfall.
Flight Calendar For Ibaraki Prefecture
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Ibaraki Prefecture.
Transportation To Ibaraki Prefecture
There are several transportation options to Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Ibaraki Prefecture is Narita International Airport, which is located in Chiba Prefecture. From Narita Airport, you can take a train or bus to reach Ibaraki Prefecture.
2. By Train: Ibaraki Prefecture is well-connected by train. You can take a train from Tokyo to reach various cities in Ibaraki Prefecture, such as Mito, Tsukuba, and Hitachi. The train journey from Tokyo to Mito takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available from Tokyo and other major cities to Ibaraki Prefecture. The bus journey may take longer compared to trains, but it can be a more affordable option.
4. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the expressway to reach Ibaraki Prefecture. The journey time will depend on your starting location and traffic conditions.
Once you are in Ibaraki Prefecture, there are local transportation options such as trains, buses, and taxis to travel within the prefecture and explore its various attractions.