Visit

Mito Castle Ruins

Mito Castle was Japan's largest earthen flatland castle, constructed between the late 12th to early 13th centuries.
It became the Mito Tokugawa family's castle after several changes in lords when Yorifusa Tokugawa was enfeoffed to Mito in 1609.
Mito Castle lost its role as a castle following the collapse of the Edo shogunate in 1868. Many of its buildings were lost due to demolition, war damages, and other causes.
Currently, the castle's earthen walls, moat, clan school Kodokan, and Yakui Gate are all that remain. Ote Gate and Ninomaru Sumiyagura Tower were also reconstructed based on historical documents.

Hitachi Fudoki no Oka Cherry Blossom

This historical area is famous for its stunning cherry blossoms and giant lion monument modeled after the mask used in "shishi-mai" (lion dance). Varieties of cherry blossoms include Somei Yoshino and Yaezakura (double-cherry trees). Perhaps the most memorable is the Shidarezakura, or weeping cherry trees, which form magical tunnels formed by their low-hanging blossoms.

Kasama Himatsuri Pottery Festival

This is the largest pottery and arts festival in Ibaraki, attracting nearly 550,000 visitors each year. More than 200 artists, craftspeople, and gallery owners exhibit their works at the festival. Even if pottery isn’t your thing, this festival is worth visiting to see the individuality and artistry that goes into each display.
Exploring the festival will work up an appetite, but plenty of food stalls will satiate the stomach. Many of these stalls are run by local artists who serve fusion dishes and fun twists on classic Japanese festival food.
Various events take place during the festivities, including a clay mask auction, musical performances, and special exhibitions by local children. Kids can also make their own clay models and use a potter’s wheel.