Behold the 120-Meter Buddha
Stand before the Ushiku Daibutsu, a towering 120-meter statue of Buddha that dominates the skyline. Built in 1993 to commemorate the birth of Shinran, this massive structure held the title of the world's tallest statue until 2008. At a cost of ¥800 for adults, it serves as a monumental landmark of faith and scale in the region.
Dive into Marine Life and Coastal Views
Experience the ocean at Aqua World Oarai, an aquarium renowned across the country for its sunfish. The facility includes a dolphin show where attendance is included in your admission—be prepared to get wet. After exploring the aquatic displays, visit the onsite food stand for fresh sushi or browse the gift shop. If you prefer the outdoors, the adjacent beach offers a spot for swimming and surfing, though the shore is somewhat rocky. For those seeking more space, the nearby beaches offer wider stretches of sand and a large outlet shopping center.
Explore Coastal Parks and History
Visit Hitachinaka Seaside Park to see world-famous flower installations. This expansive site combines nature with recreation, featuring a section of theme park rides, carnival games, a human maze, mini-golf, and a BMX course. For a deeper look into Japanese history, head to Warp Station Edo. Located on the NHK backlot, this site features outdoor sets depicting the Edo and Meiji periods, providing a physical window into Japan's historical eras.
Surf, Shop, and Coastal Living
The coastal landscape of Ibaraki provides excellent conditions for surfers and sunbathers. Popular spots like Oarai Sun Beach and Kashima Kaihin Park are local favorites. For those interested in retail, the region offers a variety of experiences:
- Visit the large Aeon shopping malls in Mito or Tsuchiura.
- Explore the Iias and Lala Garden centers in Tsukuba.
- Shop for luxury brands at the Keisei department store in Mito.
- Browse the Fashion Cruise center in Hitachinaka, located near the Seaside Park.
From the towering heights of the Ushiku Daibutsu to the coastal waves of Oarai, Ibaraki offers a diverse landscape of spiritual landmarks and coastal recreation. Begin planning your itinerary today to experience these sights firsthand.