Ibaraki

Introduction

You will find Ibaraki to be a suburban city located within the Osaka Prefecture. Situated as part of the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe metropolitan area, it offers you a residential atmosphere on the outskirts of Osaka City.

Before you go

While it may not offer the same extensive historical sites as Kyoto or the remote escapes found in Okinawa, Ibaraki provides a distinct experience for those seeking specific interests. If you are accustomed to the heavy urbanization of Tokyo, you can find plenty of opportunities for sports, nature, and shopping during your visit.

You should note that while standard Japanese is the norm throughout the prefecture, some unique linguistic quirks exist among older residents. You may find more support for English speakers in the city of Mito or in Tsukuba due to its strong international connections; however, you should expect limited English assistance elsewhere.

You can reach the region by air via Ibaraki Airport, which serves as a budget-friendly alternative to major hubs and offers quick customs and immigration processes. From this airport, you can take a bus to Mito or utilize the Kantetsu Bus service for travel toward Tokyo. While taxis are available for all arrivals, they are an expensive option compared to coordinated bus services. If you plan to use a Japan Rail Pass, it is best to travel by bus to Tokyo Station first, as there are no exchange offices in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

Traveling by train provides several routes into the area, including the Tsukuba Express Line which connects Tsukuba to Akihabara. The Joban Line passes through Mito, and you can take the "Fresh Hitachi" express train from Ueno to reach the capital city of Mito. For regional travel, the JR Kanto Highway bus offers a convenient and affordable way to reach various sights from Tokyo and Shinjuku Stations. When using local buses within Ibaraki, be prepared to use cash unless you choose to purchase a local "Ibappi" prepaid card.

Getting around

Information regarding transportation and local transit options for navigating the area is not currently available.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors of Ibaraki, a region renowned for its production of chestnuts and melons. You can experience a staple of the local diet by trying natto, which are fermented beans typically served over rice for breakfast. While the pungent aroma may be polarizing, sharing your opinion on the dish is a common way to break the ice with locals; whether you love it or find it too stinky, your response will likely earn a laugh.

Depending on where you wander, the culinary landscape shifts to match the local atmosphere. In the international hub of Tsukuba, you can explore a diverse range of cuisines including Mexican, Iranian, and African dishes. If you prefer a traditional pub setting, you can find various chain and family-owned Izakayas throughout the towns, with Hitachinaka City specifically known for its microbrewed Nest Beer.

What to see and do

Explore the coastal landscape of Ibaraki, where you can experience a variety of cultural and natural landmarks. You can visit the massive Ushiku Daibutsu, a towering statue of Buddha, or travel to Warp Station Edo to walk through outdoor sets depicting the Edo and Meiji periods. For those seeking nature and recreation, Hitachinaka Seaside Park offers a mix of flower installations, sports facilities, and a small amusement park area. You can also visit Aqua World Oarai to see sunfish and enjoy a dolphin show, or relax at Oono Shiosai Hamanasu Park in Kashima.

Depending on your interests, you can engage in various activities across the region:

• Experience the coastal lifestyle by visiting popular beaches like Hirai, Oritsu, Kashima Kaihin Park, Ootake Beach, or Oarai Sun Beach.
• Enjoy spectator sports, including professional-level soccer, basketball, and volleyball, or find a golf course among the many available in the prefecture.
• Explore various shopping centers, ranging from large malls in Mito and Tsuchiura to outlet centers in Ami and Hitachinaka.
• Visit world-standard art and history museums located in Mito, Kasama, Kita-Ibaraki, and Tsukuba.

Three days in Ibaraki

Day one, you begin your journey in Ibaraki. You can travel from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Stations to reach the local area using the Tsukuba Express Line or the Joban Line.

Day two, you explore the region and visit Mito or Tsukuba. You can also find various izakayas where you can savor different flavors while exploring the local atmosphere.

Day three, you continue your travels through the area. Depending on your preference, you can enjoy the surroundings before departing from Ibaraki Airport.