IBARAKI GUIDE

Discover the Ushiku Daibutsu, the World’s Tallest Bronze Buddha Statue, and Enjoy Delicious Food and Shopping in a Day Trip

The Ushiku Daibutsu in Ibaraki Prefecture is the tallest bronze statue of the Buddha worldwide. Standing 120 meters tall, this statue has a temple inside offering visitors a place of worship. Temple-goers can enjoy not only attractions of the statue, but also seasonal flowers in the surrounding garden and a small petting zoo opened on Sundays and holidays.

A winery designated as a Japan Heritage, where visitors can dine, is located nearby. There is also an outlet mall in the area. The following is a recommended route for a day trip from Tokyo to enjoy the Daibutsu and its surroundings.

A Full Day in the Mt. Tsukuba Area! From Nature Walks to Hot Springs!

Mount Tsukuba is a sacred mountain which is even mentioned in the famous saying 'Tsukuba to the east and Fuji to the west.' With its two peaks, Mount Tsukuba has been designated a geopark, along with its surrounding area, due to its rich vegetation and wildlife. It has been dearly loved for many years by nature and hiking enthusiasts.This model itinerary will allow you to enjoy Mt. Tsukuba to the fullest, including hiking in nature, visiting a historical shrine, enjoying a day-trip hot spring, and more.

A 2-Day Trip to Hitachi Seaside Park: Visit Nearby Destinations

Hitachi Seaside Park, located in the city of Hitachinaka, is a breathtaking spot with nemophila flowers in the spring, and kochia bushes, refreshingly green in summer and scarlet in autumn. This itinerary introduces nearby sightseeing spots and an accommodation to enjoy alongside the park.

It's possible to travel around these unique Ibaraki destinations over two days. Our recommended locations include photogenic shrines, a hot spring with therapeutic properties, an established soy sauce brewery, and a local coffee maker and confectionery. Part of the itinerary also includes cycling.