Ibaraki Prefecture, nestled in the Kanto region of Japan, is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of experiences. From the stunning beauty of Hitachi Seaside Park to the historic charm of Kairakuen Garden and the cutting-edge science at the Tsukuba Space Center, Ibaraki is a place where tradition meets innovation. Here are ten must-visit spots in Ibaraki Prefecture, each promising an enriching and memorable adventure.
Hitachi Seaside Park
- Address: 605-4 Onuma-aza, Mawatari, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki 312-0012, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (hours vary by season)
- Closed Days: Tuesdays, Year-end and New Year holidays (vary by season so check the website)
- Usage Fee: ¥450 for adults
- Official Website URL: Hitachi Seaside Park
Hitachi Seaside Park is an expansive 190-hectare park celebrated for its vast, vibrant flower fields that change with the seasons. The park is particularly famous for its breathtaking blue nemophilas in spring and bright red kochias in autumn. Alongside the natural beauty, visitors can enjoy cycling trails, an amusement park, and barbecue areas, making it a perfect destination for families and nature lovers. Its diverse attractions and seasonal floral displays offer a unique and picturesque outdoor experience throughout the year.
Kairakuen Garden
- Address: 1-3-3 Tokiwacho, Mito, Ibaraki 310-0033, Japan
- Business Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Feb to Sept), 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Oct to Feb)
- Closed Days: Open year-round
- Usage Fee: ¥300
- Official Website URL: Kairakuen Garden
Kairakuen Garden, established in 1842 in Mito, is renowned as one of Japan’s three great gardens. Conceived by Tokugawa Nariaki, it breaks tradition by welcoming the public, not just the elite. Famous for its spectacular plum blossom display, the garden boasts over 3,000 trees of more than 100 varieties. Beyond its floral marvels, Kairakuen offers serene landscapes, historic buildings like Kobuntei, and a harmonious blend of natural beauty, making it a cherished cultural and natural haven.
Tsukuba Space Center (JAXA)
- Address: 2-1-1 Sengen, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8505, Japan
- Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: Varies so check the website
- Usage Fee: ¥500
- Official Website URL: Tsukuba Space Center
The Tsukuba Space Center, located in Tsukuba Science City, is the heart of Japan’s aerospace research and development. Operated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), it serves as a key facility for satellite and space exploration missions. Visitors can explore the Space Dome exhibition hall, featuring models of rockets, satellites, and the International Space Station. The center also offers educational programs and tours, providing a unique insight into Japan’s contributions to space science and the future of space exploration.
Ushiku Daibutsu
- Address: 2083 Kunocho, Ushiku, Ibaraki 300-1288, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (hours vary by season)
- Closed Days: December 31 and January 1
- Usage Fee: ¥800 for adults
- Official Website URL: Ushiku Daibutsu
Ushiku Daibutsu, standing majestically in Ushiku, Japan, is one of the tallest statues in the world. Completed in 1993 to commemorate the birth of Shinran, the founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect of Buddhism, this awe-inspiring bronze statue reaches a height of 120 meters, including its base and lotus platform. Visitors can explore an exhibition area inside the statue, ascend to an observation floor offering panoramic views, and stroll through the surrounding garden, making it a spiritual and cultural landmark.
Fukuroda Falls
- Address: 3-19 Fukuroda, Daigo, Kuji District, Ibaraki 319-3523, Japan
- Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (May vary by season)
- Closed Days: Open year-round
- Usage Fee: ¥300 for adults
- Official Website URL: Fukuroda Falls
Fukuroda Falls, located in the town of Daigo, is one of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Cascading over four tiers, the waterfall is often described as “Japan’s Niagara” and changes its appearance with the seasons, offering a different experience each time. Particularly famous for its autumn colors and the ice sculptures that form in winter, Fukuroda Falls attracts visitors year-round. A walking trail and an elevator provide easy access to multiple viewing platforms, ensuring breathtaking views of this magnificent waterfall.
Oarai Isosaki Shrine
- Address: 6890 Isohama-cho, Oarai, Higashiibaraki District, Ibaraki 311-1301, Japan
- Business Hours: Open 24/7
- Closed Days: N/A
- Usage Fee: Free
- Official Website URL: Oarai Isosaki Shrine
Oarai Isosaki Shrine, located in Oarai Town, is a picturesque Shinto shrine known for its stunning seaside location and spiritual significance. Founded during the Nara period, the shrine is a serene destination, revered for its three sacred rocks in the ocean, connected by the iconic Oarai Torii gate that stands majestically against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. This striking combination of natural beauty and spiritual heritage makes Oarai Isosaki Shrine a must-visit for those seeking peace and contemplation amidst breathtaking scenery.
Ryujin Suspension Bridge
- Address: 2133-6 Kegano, Hitachiota, Ibaraki 313-0351, Japan
- Business Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: December 29 to January 3
- Usage Fee: Bridge entry ¥320 for adults, bungee jump fees extra
- Official Website URL: Ryujin Suspension Bridge
Ryujin Suspension Bridge, located in Hitachiota, Japan, is a marvel of engineering and natural beauty. Spanning 375 meters across the Ryujin Gorge, it is one of Japan’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges. Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, especially during the autumn when the foliage is aflame with color, the bridge attracts thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. For the adventurous, it also hosts Japan’s highest bungee jump, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the scenic beauty of the Ryujin Gorge.
Mito Art Museum
- Address: 1-6-8 Goken-cho, Mito, Ibaraki 310-0063, Japan
- Business Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Days: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday)
- Usage Fee: ¥900
- Official Website URL: Mito Art Museum
The Mito Art Museum, situated in the heart of Mito City, Japan, stands as a beacon of contemporary art and culture. Officially known as the Art Tower Mito (ATM), it encompasses a unique combination of visual arts, music, and performing arts. Designed by the renowned architect Arata Isozaki, the museum features a striking tower that has become a landmark of the city. With its diverse exhibitions, concert hall, and theater, the Mito Art Museum offers a vibrant space for artistic expression and exploration, attracting art enthusiasts from around the world.
Kasama Inari Shrine
- Address: 1 Kasama, Kasama, Ibaraki 309-1611, Japan
- Business Hours: 6:00 – Sunset (Varies by the season)
- Closed Days: N/A
- Usage Fee: Free
- Official Website URL: Kasama Inari Shrine
Kasama Inari Shrine, nestled in the heart of Kasama City, is a revered Shinto shrine with a rich history dating back to the 9th century. Dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, fertility, and industry, this shrine is a spiritual and cultural hub, particularly famous for its beautiful torii gates and thousands of fox statues, messengers of Inari. The shrine’s tranquil gardens, seasonal festivals, and traditional architecture attract both worshippers and tourists, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage.
Ibaraki Nature Museum
- Address: 700 Osaki, Bando, Ibaraki 306-0622, Japan
- Business Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Closed Days: Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a national holiday), Year-end and New Year holidays
- Usage Fee: ¥540 for adults (¥750 in Special Exhibition Period)
- Official Website URL: Ibaraki Nature Museum
The Ibaraki Nature Museum, located in Bando City, is an expansive facility dedicated to exploring the natural history and biodiversity of the region and beyond. Through a wide range of exhibits that include dioramas, interactive displays, and outdoor activities, the museum offers visitors insights into the evolution of life, local ecosystems, and environmental conservation efforts. Its commitment to education and preservation makes it a vital resource for understanding the natural world, appealing to curious minds of all ages and fostering a deeper appreciation for our planet’s diversity.
Ibaraki Prefecture beckons travelers with its unique blend of scenic beauty, historic sites, and cultural depth. From the spiritual serenity of Kasama Inari Shrine to the awe-inspiring heights of the Ryujin Suspension Bridge and the scientific wonders of the Tsukuba Space Center, Ibaraki offers a journey through the diverse landscapes of Japan. Each of these recommended spots highlights the rich tapestry of experiences awaiting in Ibaraki, inviting visitors to delve into a world where nature’s splendor and human creativity converge. Ensure to check the latest information through official sources before planning your visit, to fully embrace the enchanting allure of Ibaraki Prefecture.