Visit

Former Uwaoka Elementary School

The Former Uwaoka Elementary School was founded in 1879 and is located in a quaint wooden schoolhouse with a retro ambiance.

The school closed in 2001 but has been beautifully preserved, and you can tour inside the building. The old desks, chairs, and chalkboards that fill the classrooms and hallways will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

This particular schoolhouse is famous as a filming location for many television series, such as "Hanako and Anne" and "Ohisama." It's especially recommended to visit in the spring when the cherry blossoms bloom or in the fall when the surrounding mountains are adorned with vibrant autumn leaves. The school is typically open to the public only on weekends and holidays but is open daily during these two seasons.

Tsukimachi Falls

Tsukimachi Falls is one of the hidden gems of the northern Ibaraki area. While the falls themselves aren't as dramatic as the famed Fukuroda Falls, its unique geology allows visitors to walk behind a curtain of water to observe the rushing water from behind.
The fast-flowing water makes it a great place to cool off during the Japanese summer. The area is also known for its flaming red maple foliage in autumn.
Momijien Soba Restaurant is located to the falls if you'd like to enjoy a meal while gazing out at the scenery. This restaurant uses locally grown buckwheat flour to make its noodles. Freshly-made soba paired with the falls makes for a picturesque memory in Ibaraki.

Fukuroda Falls

Fukuroda Falls is ranked among Japan’s "Three Great Waterfalls." A visit here will quickly reveal why. Water cascades over four levels of the rocky cliff face, earning it the nickname "Yondo no Taki" (four times waterfalls).
In autumn, the falls are breathtaking when the fiery foliage transforms the surrounding mountains. But if you can’t make it in autumn, don’t worry! In winter, the waterfall freezes over in a stunning icy spectacle. In the summertime, the cool spray of the rushing water makes them a great place to escape the heat.
The Fukuroda Falls area is where several beginner-friendly hiking trails begin. It's a great way to explore more of northern Ibaraki’s stunning mountains.
If hiking isn’t your thing, head to one of the soba noodle restaurants or souvenir shops at the base of the falls. You can even sample the area’s famous apple pie!