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Tsukubasan Shrine

Tsukuba Shrine is a venerable and historic shrine, believed to have approximately 3,000 years of history, dedicated to the sacred Mt. Tsukuba in Ibaraki. It is one of Japan's most prestigious and historically significant shrines.

Mt. Tsukuba features two peaks: Mount Nantai (Male Peak) and Mount Nyotai (Female Peak). It is believed that deities associated with Japan's creation myth, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, reside at each summit. For that reason, the shrine is believed to bring good luck in matchmaking, safety for one's family, pregnancy, and childrearing.

The shrine serves as the starting point for sightseeing on Mt. Tsukuba. Many visitors come here to pray for a safe hike up the mountain. Its location at the base of Mt. Nantai also offers convenient access to the cable car platform.

Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition

This firework display first began in 1925 to commemorate the Kasumigaura Naval Air Force members killed in WWI. The event also shines a light on tourism in the local area. In 1947, it was revamped as a competition where fireworks manufacturers and experts nationwide could show off their skills.

Kijo Park

The park is a historical symbol of Tsuchiura and was developed from part of the former Tsuchiura Castle. The castle, constructed in the late Muromachi period (1429-1440), was commonly known as "Kijō" ("Turtle Castle") because it resembled a turtle floating in the water. This also carried over to the park, which was named Kijo Park. Castanopsis trees, designated as a natural monument by the prefecture, and a lawn square can be found in the park. You can also see historical heritages that portray the vestiges of the former castle, such as Yagura Gate and Kasumi Gate.