Visit

Howaen Garden

Howaen Garden is a spacious garden adjacent to Keiganji Temple (established in 1682). It is a popular place to enjoy blooming hydrangeas in Mito.
The garden's history is said to have begun around the late 17th century when Mitsukuni Tokugawa (1628 - 1701), the second lord of the Mito Domain, granted it the name Howaen.
During the early Showa period (1926 - 1989), the garden was expanded with a pond and artificial hills added to its landscaping by local volunteers and became a pure Japanese-style garden.
Hydrangeas were planted in Howaen Garden after the authority of the garden was transferred from the temple to Mito City in 1950.
When June arrives, the garden's 6,000 hydrangeas in 100 varieties reach their peak, making it the best time to view the flowers. The Mito Hydrangea Festival takes place during this season.

Meiri Shurui Brewing

The yeast used in the brewery process at Meiri Shurui gives their sake a light, fruity aroma without added acidity. The Besshunkan Visitor Brewery explains how sake is made, including complimentary tastings. There's also a shop selling refined sake and plum wine.

Hoshiimo Specialty Shop Daimaruya

Daimaruya was established in 1897. To fully bring out the natural flavor of the ingredients, they have been making additive-free products for over 120 years since their founding.

The shop offers a variety of sweet potato-based products, including dried sweet potatoes. Additionally, they have a selection of additive-free gelato made without artificial flavors or preservatives, featuring unique flavors like several types of sweet potato and Ibaraki's famous melon. There are also find pickled shallots, honey, original sweet potato shochu, and plum wine, making this an ideal spot for picking up souvenirs.

Daimaruya also offers workshops on making dried sweet potatoes. Reservations are required; please check the official website for more details.