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Southern Ibaraki

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.

Parks/Nature

Castles/Historical Sites

Southern Ibaraki

Ishioka Festival

Ishioka Festival is one of the largest festivities in the Kanto region, attracting nearly half a million visitors annually. It takes place throughout central Ishioka City and Hitachinokuni Soshagu Shrine.
The festival's highlight is the parade that features traditional floats, mikoshi portable shrines, and shishi-mai lion dances. Moreover, Ishioka Festival is perfect for tasting signature Japanese street food and the latest food trends.

Festivals/Events

Northern Ibaraki

Morishima Brewery

Morishima Brewery was established over 150 years ago along the coast. While most sake is brewed with soft water, Morishima Brewery sources hard water flowing 200 meters under the Abukuma Mountains of northern Ibaraki Prefecture.

Sake Breweries/Distilleries

Western Ibaraki

Moka Railway

Japan is famous for its trains, and the Moka Railway is no exception. This historical steam railway is a great way to experience the bygone days of Japan while taking in sweeping views of Ibaraki and Tochigi's countryside.
The railway spans 42 kilometers from Shimodate in Ibaraki Prefecture to Motegi in the neighboring Tochigi Prefecture. Passengers can enjoy a panoramic view aboard the steam locomotive.

Other

Western Ibaraki

Makabe Hina Doll Festival

In Japan, hina dolls were traditionally displayed to celebrate Girl's Day in early March. Locals started the Makabe Hina Doll Festival to encourage visitors to the historic town during the colder winter months.
During the festival, residents and businesses create elaborate displays of traditional hina dolls in their homes and shops. Visitors are free to enter to see these magnificent displays. Many of the dolls have been passed down through families for generations.
The historic area of Makabe is also home to warehouses known as "kura" and streets lined with traditional townhouses. Visitors can truly feel transported back in time during the festival.

Crafts

Castles/Historical Sites

Festivals/Events

Central Ibaraki

Sudo Honke Brewery

With a history spanning 870 years, Sudo Honke Brewery prides itself on using premium quality rice for its junmai daiginjo blend—the highest grade of sake. All of the rice used is grown locally in Kasama City. Sudo Honke sake is dry with a well-rounded, deep flavor profile.

Sake Breweries/Distilleries

Central Ibaraki

Art Tower Mito

Art Tower Mito is a landmark of Mito City. Its angular, spiraling tower stands 100 meters tall and offers stunning views over the capital city and beyond.
The on-site gallery hosts a variety of modern art exhibitions from around the world, including theater and musical performances.
A visit to Mito City is not complete without exploring this unique landmark!

Museums/Zoos/Aquariums

Other

Central Ibaraki

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!

Parks/Nature

Central Ibaraki

Okushi Historical Park

Okushi Historical Park is a national historic site located on a prehistoric kitchen midden. Visitors can explore how people lived during the Jomon Period (14,000-300 BCE), Yayoi Period (300 BCE–300CE), and Kofun Period (300CE – 538CE) through exhibitions and replica houses.
The park is also home to a statue of Daidarabo, a legendary giant said to have been 15 meters tall. You can climb up inside the giant and view the surrounding area from the palm of his hand!

Parks/Nature

Castles/Historical Sites

Northern Ibaraki

Mizuki Beach

The Ministry of the Environment lists Mizuki Beach as one of their 100 recommended beaches. The small waves mean that even children can play safely in the sea.

Parks/Nature

Sports/Outdoor

Western Ibaraki

Nishioka Brewery

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Tsukuba, this brewery was founded in 1782. The area has long been known for its high-quality rice and pure natural spring water, which continues to be used in Nishioka's sake brewing. Nishioka Brewery also uses its traditional buildings to host various cultural events.

Sake Breweries/Distilleries

Northern Ibaraki

Ose Beach

Ose Beach is the closest seashore to JR Hitachi Station. At high tide, seawater fills up hollows in the rocks forming natural pools that are perfect for children to play in.
The beach also hosts a summer festival every year.

Parks/Nature

Sports/Outdoor