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Kijian

Ibaraki Prefecture is Japan's second-largest lacquer producer, and the center of production is the town of Daigo. Daigo lacquer is characterized by its high transparency and quality sheen, making it a very rare and high-quality product.

The Kijian brand was established to pass down the appeal of Daigo lacquer of the exceptional quality to future generations.
At Kijian, they meticulously carry out the entire process, from cultivating lacquer trees and refining lacquer to creating wooden bases, applying lacquer, and selling lacquerware. Some of their work can be found at their gallery shop, which is located in an old warehouse.

Daigo lacquer tableware makes great souvenirs. The lacquer develops a beautiful sheen that becomes more vivid and transparent with continued use.

Mori no Ideyu Hot Spring

This onsen (hot-spring bath) has an outdoor bathing facility overlooking the picturesque scenery of Mount Yamizo.
The onsen also offers seasonal baths, including tubs filled with floating apples from October to January. In June, there is a green tea-infused bath alongside aromatic scented baths.

Daigo Oyaki Cooking School

Oyaki is a steamed bun made from buckwheat flour and stuffed with seasonal fillings. This snack is thought to have been a way to preserve fresh produce longer and remain popular today.
In the northern Ibaraki area, oyaki were traditionally made by baking the buns in a sunken hearth. Nowadays, Japanese homes don't have hearths, so oyaki are usually steamed or baked in the oven. In addition to traditional combinations of seasonal vegetables, modern oyaki are often stuffed with fruit or sweet red bean paste!
If you'd like to make your own oyaki, head to Daigo Oyaki Cooking School in Daigo! Housed in an old school building from the Meiji Era, it is the perfect setting to try your hand at this traditional Japanese dish. The school also has a shop and restaurant.