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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 Ote Gate and Ninomaru Sumiyagura Tower were also reconstructed based on historical documents.

Mito Plum Blossom Festival

The Mito Plum Blossom Festival began in 1896 when the railway between Mito and Ueno opened, and trains for viewing plum blossoms were implemented. The festival is held annually from mid-February to late March, coinciding with the blooming season of plum blossoms. Mainly, the festival takes place at Japan Heritage sites: Kairakuen, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, and Kodokan, previously the domain school of the Mito Domain. At Kairakuen, there are approximately 100 varieties and 3,000 plum trees, while at Kodokan, there are around 60 varieties and 800 plum trees. During the festival, there will be various events such as evening illuminations, fireworks, and the Japan Umeshu (plum liqueur) Festival. At this festival, you can try over 150 varieties of plum liqueur from all parts of the country.
The Mito Plum Blossom Festival is a beloved annual festival that brings the spirit of spring to Mito, attracting both locals and visitors.

Mito City Forest Park

Mito City Forest Park was established in 1968 to commemorate 100 years since the Meiji Restoration (marking the end of the feudal era in Japan).
There are around 10,000 trees in the park, and locals hold a tree-planting event each year.
Take a stroll through the park, and you may glimpse something mysterious through the trees. The park is also home to giant replica dinosaurs!