Ibaraki may be close to Tokyo, but it has a character entirely its own — famous for the world’s most beautiful garden, dramatic Pacific coastline, and some surprisingly excellent sake and seafood.
Top Attractions
1. Hitachi Seaside Park
One of Japan’s most spectacular floral parks, Hitachi Seaside Park draws millions of visitors for its seasonal displays: baby-blue nemophila flowers in spring and brilliant red kochia bushes in autumn. The rolling hills of color against the sea backdrop are genuinely breathtaking.
2. Kairakuen Garden
One of Japan’s three great gardens, Kairakuen is famous above all for its 3,000 plum trees — among the finest plum blossom viewing in the country. The garden also offers stunning views over Lake Senba.
3. Kashima Jingu
One of Japan’s oldest and most important Shinto shrines, Kashima Jingu is set deep in an ancient cedar forest. The approach through towering trees creates an atmosphere of timeless spiritual power.
Food & Drink
Ibaraki is Japan’s top producer of natto (fermented soybeans). It also produces excellent anko (sweetfish), fresh Pacific seafood, and surprisingly good sake. Anko-nabe (monkfish hot pot) is a winter delicacy.
Getting There
Hitachi Seaside Park is about 2 hours from Tokyo by express train. Mito, the prefectural capital, is about 75 minutes on the Limited Express.
