Ibaraki Travel Recommendations

Ibaraki Prefecture is located on the eastern coast of Honshu, the main island of Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and historic landmarks. This prefecture is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Japan, offering visitors an unforgettable experience they will never forget.

Getting to Ibaraki from Tokyo

Getting to Ibaraki from Tokyo is incredibly easy. The easiest and most cost-efficient way to travel from Tokyo to Ibaraki is by train. Tokyo is connected to Ibaraki by several train lines, including the JR Joban Line, which runs directly between Tokyo and Ibaraki. The journey takes around an hour and a half, with trains leaving regularly throughout the day. During the journey, travelers can enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery passing by and get a glimpse of what they have in store for them.

The best season to visit Ibaraki

The best season to visit Ibaraki is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild, and the flora and fauna are at their best. During these seasons, visitors can enjoy the stunning and colorful flowers from the Hitachi Seaside Park or take a walk through the Kairaku-en Garden that offers a wide variety of blooming plum trees. Although summers are hot and humid, it is still a great time to visit, as it is the peak of outdoor activity in the area. During this time, visitors can enjoy numerous festivals, outdoor picnics, and sporting events.

Must-see places in Ibaraki

There is an extensive list of must-see places in Ibaraki, so let’s dive into some of the top sites.

Hitachi Seaside Park

Located in Hitachinaka City, the Hitachi Seaside Park is one of the most famous places in Ibaraki, known for its breathtaking views of flowers and the Pacific Ocean. The park is home to numerous gardens including the famous Nemophila Harmony (the ocean of blue flowers) where over 4.5 million baby blue eyes bloom during late April and early May, and the Miharashi Hill that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area.

Kairaku-en Garden

Kairaku-en Garden is considered one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. The garden was built in the 1840s by the local feudal lord Tokugawa Nariaki, and its name “Kairaku” means “enjoyment”. Kairaku-en garden is also famous for its 3,000 plum trees that bloom in early spring, and its Azalea and Wisteria flowers that bloom in early summer. Visitors can enjoy a stroll in the garden while admiring the stunning natural beauty.

Tsukuba Space Center

This space center is located in Tsukuba, Ibaraki and is run by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). The center is home to several facilities including a visitor center where visitors can learn about space exploration, handle mock space hardware and view rockets and satellites up close. The center also hosts the famous ‘Science Dome Planetarium’ that projects a stunning view of galaxies, stars, and planets.

Fukuroda Falls

Fukuroda Falls is a renowned waterfall located in Northern Ibaraki Prefecture. It is celebrated as one of Japan’s most beautiful waterfalls, captivating visitors with its impressive height and picturesque surroundings. The waterfall cascades down a series of steps, extending approximately 120 meters in total. The sight is particularly breathtaking during the autumn season when the surrounding foliage transforms into vibrant hues. Visitors can access multiple viewing platforms to observe the waterfall from different angles, experiencing its majestic power and the refreshing mist it creates. Fukuroda no Taki is a cherished natural gem and a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Kashima Shrine

Kashima Shrine is a significant Shinto shrine located in Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. It holds great historical and cultural importance as one of the oldest and most esteemed shrines in the country. Kashima Shrine is dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, a deity associated with martial arts and protection. The shrine’s architecture follows traditional Japanese design, featuring impressive torii gates and ornate structures. It serves as a place of worship and spiritual retreat for locals and visitors alike. Kashima Shrine is also known for hosting traditional ceremonies and festivals throughout the year, attracting large crowds who come to experience the vibrant atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions of Shintoism.

Cuisines you can enjoy in Ibaraki

Natto

Ibaraki Prefecture is known for the production of natto, a staple Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Natto is a popular breakfast food and is often served over hot rice. It has a unique texture and aroma that might take a while to get used to, but it is a must-try when visiting Ibaraki.

Kashipan

Kashipan is a Japanese-style sweet bread that originated in Ibaraki Prefecture. It is made with a unique blend of flour, sugar, and yeast, which creates a soft and fluffy texture. The bread is often filled with sweet red bean paste, cream, or custard and is a popular snack or dessert in the region.

Tsukemono

Tsukemono is a traditional Japanese dish that consists of pickled vegetables. Ibaraki Prefecture is known for producing some of the best pickled vegetables in Japan, including daikon radish, cucumber, eggplant, and cabbage. The pickling process enhances the flavor of the vegetables, making them a delicious and healthy side dish.

Oyakodon

Oyakodon is a popular Japanese dish that originated in Ibaraki Prefecture. It consists of chicken and eggs simmered in a sweet and savory sauce, served over hot rice. The dish is easy to make and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Hitachi Wagyu Beef

Hitachi Wagyu beef is a premium Japanese beef that is produced in Ibaraki Prefecture. The beef is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, thanks to the strict feeding regimen and rearing practices. It is often served as a high-end steak or as a topping for rice bowls and noodle dishes.

Amazake

Amazake is a traditional Japanese drink made from fermented rice. It is a sweet and creamy drink that is often served hot during the winter months. Ibaraki is known for producing some of the best amazake in Japan, thanks to the region’s high-quality rice and pure water sources.

Ibaraki-style Ramen

Ibaraki-style ramen is a regional variation of the popular Japanese noodle dish. The broth is made with chicken and seafood, giving it a light and refreshing flavor. The noodles are also slightly thinner and firmer than other types of ramen noodles. The dish is often served with a variety of toppings, including green onions, soft-boiled eggs, and seaweed.

Kaki (Oyster)

Ibaraki Prefecture is known for its high-quality oysters, which are harvested from the Pacific Ocean. The oysters are often eaten raw or grilled and are a popular snack or appetizer in the region. Oysters are also used in a variety of dishes, including stews, soups, and rice bowls.

Recommended Accommodations in Ibaraki

The Kisaragi-no-yu Ryokan

Situated in Kasama City, the Kisaragi-no-yu Ryokan is a haven of tranquillity and luxury. It boasts of 11 rooms, each adorned with traditional Japanese-style interior, and breathtaking views of the adjacent mountains. Some rooms even come with private open-air onsen baths, perfect for a relaxing dip.

Meldia Hotel Mikaduki

Meldia Hotel Mikaduki is a fusion of the East and the West. Its design is modern contemporary, and its interiors are a blend of Western and Japanese styles. This hotel is situated in Hitachinaka City, a few minutes’ walk away from Mikaduki Station. The rooms are spacious and decorated with neutral colours and minimalist furnishings.

Okunoin Hotel Tokugawa

Okunoin Hotel Tokugawa is another luxurious hotel in Ibaraki Prefecture. It is nestled in the midst of lush greenery and offers a range of traditional Japanese baths, including a massive outdoor bath that can accommodate up to 60 people. The rooms are large and equipped with the latest amenities, including large-screen TVs and Wi-Fi internet access.

Seisenso

Seisenso is a luxurious Japanese-style ryokan located in the heart of Mount Tsukuba. The rooms are beautifully furnished with Japanese-style sliding doors, tatami mats, and futon beds. The ryokan has several natural hot spring baths, including an outdoor hot spring overlooking the surrounding mountains.

Kashima Seascape Hotel

Kashima Seascape Hotel is a famous hotel in Kashima City known for its stunning views of the Kashima Sea. It features a range of luxurious rooms, including Premier Ocean View and Terrace rooms that offer panoramic ocean views. The hotel comes equipped with a range of facilities, including a restaurant, a fitness centre, and a natural hot spring bath.

Chisun Inn Hitachinaka

Chisun Inn Hitachinaka’s rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and equipped with an array of modern amenities. The hotel’s location is ideal for exploring the local area, and it boasts of excellent transport connections. The hotel also provides a complimentary breakfast buffet, a 24-hour front desk, and free parking facilities.

Conclusion

In summary, Ibaraki Prefecture is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. From the breathtaking Hitachi Seaside Park and Kairaku-en Garden to the peaceful Lake Kasumigaura and educational Tsukuba Space Center, there are endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the beauty of this area. It is easy to get to from Tokyo and the best season to visit is during spring and fall. Make sure to add Ibaraki to your travel list and experience the unique charm that it offers.