IBARAKI GUIDE

Mito Historical Tour Day Trip

a day trip in Mito
After a history trip, enjoy shopping at the Keisei Department store.

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 3-Day, 2-Night Road Trip: Explore Stunning Autumn Scenery and Local Cuisine

From mid to late October, the kochia at Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture turn bright red, attracting many visitors. During this time, Japan's oldest chrysanthemum festival at Kasama Inari Shrine and the autumn roses at Ibaraki Flower Park can also be enjoyed. In addition, at Lake Kasumigaura, the second-largest lake in Japan, visitors can observe the traditional fishing boats, Hobikisen—a seasonal spectacle from summer to autumn—viewed from a sightseeing boat running alongside them.
For meals, savor fresh seafood and dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. In the evenings, relax surrounded by nature, with glamping at Ibaraki Flower Park and staying in a traditional Japanese-style house by the Kasumigaura lakeshore.
This 3-day, 2-night road trip itinerary, starting from Narita Airport, offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the middle of Japanese autumn.