Travel Plans

A 2-Day, 1-Night Historical Journey in Mito City: Exploring Landmarks from the Edo and Meiji Periods

There are many spots related to the Tokugawa shogunate family, who led the Japanese government during the Edo period (1603 - 1868) in Mito. The Tokugawa Gosanke, three branches that were allowed to carry the Tokugawa family name, existed during this time and held status that ranked next to the shogunate family. The Mito Tokugawa family, the lords of the Mito Domain (present-day central and north Ibaraki Prefecture), was one of those families. The Mito Tokugawa family emphasized education in Japanese history and the sciences with their retainers, which became famously known as Mitogaku. In addition to facilities related to Mitogaku, Mito has a museum where visitors can enjoy historical exhibits associated with the Tokugawa family, and historical buildings such as a former school established during the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Exploring these spots will deepen your understanding of Japan`s history during the Edo period and the beginning of modernization.

Early Summer Road Trip: A 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary to Explore Irises and Savor Local Delicacies

This is a 2-day, 1-night road trip itinerary for early summer, starting in Mito City. In Ibaraki, visitors can enjoy the Suigo-Itako Iris Festival from late spring to late June, a festival famous for the traditional Yomeiribune (bride boat). This itinerary offers not only the opportunity to admire the irises but also to savor meals and sweets featuring local ingredients, including Ibaraki Prefecture's specialty gourmet melons and sweet potatoes. You’ll also have the chance to interact with living creatures at the newly opened Kasumigaura Dobutsu to Minna no Ie and visit the Aqua World Ibaraki Prefecture Oarai Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Japan. The itinerary also takes you past the spiritual Ikisu Shrine. For accommodation, enjoy staying in a traditional house built about 120 years ago and designated as a Cultural Property of Japan—an ideal place for family trips.

A 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary to Enjoy the Plum Blossom Festival and Monkfish Cuisine in Ibaraki Prefecture During the Cold Season!

From early February to late March, the nationally famous plum trees in Ibaraki Prefecture bloom, and plum blossom festivals are held at various locations, including Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, and the former domain school Kodokan, a designated Japanese Heritage site. In this 2-day, 1-night itinerary, you’ll not only admire the beautiful plum blossoms but also discover unique ways to enjoy the cold season in Ibaraki. Indulge in seasonal monkfish dishes, considered a delicacy since the Edo period, take in the spectacular view of a torii gate standing on a rock in the sea at dawn, and, at night, enjoy bar-hopping through streets that exude a retro atmosphere after admiring the illuminated plum blossoms.