Travel Plans

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.

Explore Kasama City by Bike (daytrip from Tokyo/Ueno)

If you're looking to get out of the city and explore during your trip to Japan, look no further than this daytrip to Kasama, Ibaraki, just an hour and a half from Tokyo by train! After arriving, borrow bikes from the Tourist Information Office at the station and start exploring! First off, visit Kasama Inari Shrine. With a history of over 1360 years, this shrine is one of Japan's 3 Great Inari Shrines and attracts 3.5 million pilgrims every year. On the street outside the shrine, make sure to grab some local speciality foods like Inari Sushi (deep-fried tofu skin stuffed with rice and other local ingredients like walnuts) or manju steamed buns. Explore the local shopping streets with their traditional architecture as you enjoy your snack. Then, get back on your bike and head to Kasama Crafthills to relax while surrounded by expansive nature. Finally, pick up some Kasama-yaki Pottery at Kirara Gallery - each piece of pottery is unique so make sure to look for the item that's just …

A 2-Day, 1-Night Car Trip: Visit Famous Cherry Blossom Spots and Experience the Traditional Silk Fabric “Yuki-tsumugi”

In Ibaraki Prefecture, the cherry blossom viewing season lasts from the end of March to early April. This travel itinerary by car begins in Mito, where visitors can explore famous cherry blossom viewing spots. Then admire seasonal flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park, and stroll through the nostalgic streets of Yuki City while wearing traditional clothing made from "Yuki-tsumugi" silk, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Lastly, in Koga City, you will visit a historic sake brewery. Enjoy a meal in a sophisticated traditional Japanese-style residence, followed by an overnight stay at a hilltop glamping facility with a scenic view.