All Ibaraki Prefecture Tours & Excursions in 2026

Just under two hours from Tokyo, discover Hitachi’s spiritual and cultural treasures. Begin at the sacred Oiwa Shrine, walking ancient forest paths and receiving a blessing guided by a shrine maiden. Hike to breathtaking peaks, uncover hidden stone Buddhas and gods, and savor a scenic lunch with local rice balls. After descending serene trails, visit a gateway village for tea and heartfelt exchanges with locals, learning their traditions and way of life. This exclusive tour offers an intimate glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage and community warmth. Data: The itinerary can be flexibly adjusted depending on the physical condition and experience of the guests and the weather on the day. Trekking will be cancelled if more than 2 mm of precipitation is expected. The course may be changed due to the weather on the day or if the guide deems it necessary.　 Total walking distance : 6.5km Ascent: 439m Descent: 439m Total walking time: 3.5 hours without Lunch time

Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the tallest statues in the world, invites visitors to explore its vast spiritual significance. This guided tour provides an in-depth understanding of the monumental bronze Buddha and its surrounding sacred space. Guests will walk through carefully designed pathways and gardens, each symbolizing stages of spiritual progression, while learning about key Buddhist concepts. Inside the statue, multiple levels reveal aspects of Buddhist cosmology, culminating in breathtaking views from the observation deck. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the essence of Buddhist devotion and appreciate the architectural marvel of Ushiku Daibutsu. - Discover the spiritual and architectural significance of Ushiku Daibutsu - Walk through symbolic gardens and pathways representing Buddhist concepts - Explore multiple interior levels of the statue, learning about Buddhist cosmology - Enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck at the statue's summit

Hitachinaka City in Ibaraki Prefecture is home to the famous National Hitachi Seaside Park, where you can enjoy the four seasons with nemophila and kochia.　 The experience venue is located almost halfway between Katsuta Station and the seaside park, so it is possible either on the way to or from sightseeing. Would you like to experience the Japanese culture of “Shodo” (calligraphy) with a brush pen? A former art teacher and Iromusubi Sho(Colorful calligraphy) instructor will teach you in an easy-to-understand and detailed manner, so beginners will not have to worry. Let's write your name or favorite word in Kanji characters! Combine the kanji you have written with traditional Japanese paper or origami, frame it, and you have a piece of brush calligraphy art! You can take it home as a souvenir and display it in your room as a wonderful memory of your trip to Japan. We hope you will try it for yourself!

Visit a rural guardian shrine and learn how faith shapes daily life in Satomi. Harvest seasonal vegetables and cook a farm-to-table lunch with a local farmer. Access to the meeting point is only 1.5 hours from Tokyo. Enjoy hands-on cultural exchange with people living in a mountain village. Carve your own pair of chopsticks using locally sourced wood. Discover a hidden satoyama area rarely visited by international travelers.

・You will have the chance to try "tehineri"(clay forming by hand), a traditional technique handed down from the Jomon period(about 3,000 years ago), at a kiln that was established in 1796. ・Make your choice of bowls, plates, cups etc. After learning from and seeing an example from your instructor, you will get to make a piece with your own hands. ・After you're done making your piece, we will glaze and fire it for you, which will take about two months to complete. We will then send you your finished Kasama-yaki piece by SAL(Surface Air Lifted) mail.

Easy Kimono Experience: Many people find ordinary kimonos painful because they are tied with strings and layered. This kimono is an original kimono developed to make it possible to look perfect and beautiful without layering. It can be put on over Western clothes in about 5 minutes. It is not painful because it uses elastic and Velcro (hook and loop fastener). *Sorry, there is no wheelchair access route to the venue.

Start your spring day with a journey full of local charm, delicious seafood, and breathtaking flowers! First, dive into the vibrant energy of Nakaminato Fish Market, where the morning’s freshest catch is on full display. Wander through lively stalls offering everything from plump scallops to glistening tuna, and treat yourself to a mouthwatering kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) or sizzling grilled delicacies right on the spot. It’s a must-visit for food lovers and a great way to experience local life by the sea. Then, we head to the iconic Hitachi Seaside Park, where the rolling hills are transformed into a magical blue landscape with millions of blooming nemophila (baby blue eyes). Stroll through this sea of flowers, soak in the fresh air, and snap unforgettable photos in one of Japan’s most beautiful seasonal scenes. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and foodies alike, this half-day adventure is a refreshing spring escape that captures the best of coastal Ibaraki.

An authentic cultural experience away from Japan’s major tourist destinations A rare opportunity to discover UNESCO-recognized Yuki Tsumugi Silk production techniques Hands-on silk spinning and weaving in one comprehensive workshop A close-up view of skilled local artisans at work A one-of-a-kind silk mini scarf to take home on the same day Access to an onsite shop specializing in Yuki Tsumugi products

Discover the best of Ibaraki on this scenic and flavorful day tour. Enjoy the stunning seasonal flower fields of Hitachi Seaside Park, where vibrant colors and wide-open coastal views create unforgettable photo moments. Continue to the historic Kurosawa Soy Sauce Shop to learn about traditional brewing methods and experience the rich aromas of naturally aged soy sauce. Then explore the lively Nakaminato Fish Market, filled with fresh seafood, friendly vendors, and delicious local specialties. Finally, relax at Kairakuen Park, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, known for its beautiful landscapes and famous plum blossoms. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and local flavors. This tour is great for any types of travelers , such as adventure seekers, families with children, etc.

・Be the Pro: The Art of Tsurushi-giri Don’t just watch—grab a knife! Join the "Tsurushi-giri" (hook-cutting) ritual at the port. Under a master's guidance, you’ll feel the fish’s weight, catch the fresh monkfish liver (Ankimo), and learn to skin this deep-sea delicacy yourself. ・Ultimate Ocean-to-Table Feast Cook "Dobujiru," a legendary fisherman’s hot pot made purely from the fish’s juices and rich liver miso. Enjoy a "head-to-tail" feast, savoring every part with local pairings you won't find in any city restaurant. ・Seamless Travel with Free Transfers Skip the logistics. Our complimentary round-trip transfers ensure your journey to the North Ibaraki coast is as smooth as the premium monkfish liver you’ll taste.

Kairakuen, one of Japan's Three Great Gardens, invites exploration into its rich history and design philosophy. Created during the Edo period, this guided tour reveals how Tokugawa Nariaki envisioned a space for both ruler and people, emphasizing harmony and contrast throughout the landscape. Wander through moso bamboo groves, plum orchards, and shaded woods while discovering the garden's roles in diplomacy and intellectual life. Visit Kobuntei, an elegant pavilion with views that once graced the elite, and enjoy a break at the café with light food and traditional sweets. This immersive experience uncovers the cultural significance of Kairakuen, making it a must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts. - Discover the historical and cultural significance of Kairakuen - Explore diverse landscapes including bamboo groves and plum orchards - Visit the elegant Kobuntei structure for unique interior insights - Enjoy light refreshments at the café while taking in stunning views

You can make brooches (and clips) simply by folding colorful crape cloth, gluing and attaching. Once you learn how to make them, you can make many of them in your own country, and they make great gifts.

The Art of Fire: Discover the warmth of charcoal and wood through the "Irori" hearth and "Kamado" stove. Dedicated Host Support: From lighting the fire for your bath to sharing local delicacies, your host ensures a smooth and welcoming experience for first-time visitors. Vintage Nostalgia: Relax among antique furniture and traditional architecture, complemented by a modern private sauna. Private Dog Run: A rare, pet-friendly traditional retreat with plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.

You can learn and enjoy Japanese alcohol with an expert. The director of Meiri Shurui, which was established in 1950(Meiri Shuruis predecessor was Kato Shuzoten which was founded in the late Edo Period), will guide you around Besshun-kan, Museum of Plum wine "Umeshu" and Japanese Sake especially.

Kumihimo Experience: Kumihimo has a long history in Japan, dating back more than 1,000 years to the Nara period (710-794), and was used for armor. This time, we will make either charms or bracelets that are easy for children to make.

In Inada area of Kasama city, you can feel and learn Japanese traditional culture with my guiding. Will guide you to Inada Shrine, Sainenji Temple, and Isokura Sake Brewery by 3-hour walking. Sainen-ji is a temple that has its roots in the "Inada no Souan" where SHINRAN, a founder of the Jodo Shinshu sect, lived for about 20 years during his missionary work in eastern Japan. The thatched-roof Sanmon gate was built in the 14th century and is a valuable item that survived the fire. You can enter the main hall of the temple and see a wonderful view of a statue of Amida Buddha, SHINRAN, and his wife Eshinni. In front of the main hall, you can see an 800-year-old ginkgo tree with leaves that SHINRAN planted . Since 1868, Isokura Brewery has produced Japanese sake "Inasato" using local water and rice. You can enjoy and learn how to make sake with traditional methods during the tour and try sake tasting at the shop.

Ibaraki is one of Japan's most underrated prefectures, home to striking scenic and spiritual landmarks just beyond Tokyo. With a private vehicle, this guided tour covers the full range of highlights: the towering Ushiku Daibutsu, a 120-meter bronze Buddha statue with an elevator to an 85-meter observation deck; Hitachi Seaside Park, famous for seasonal blooms; Kairakuen, one of Japan's top three landscape gardens; and Nakaminato Fish Market, a lively seafood hub. Without a private vehicle, Ushiku Daibutsu sits roughly 58km from the other sights and is unrealistic by public transport within the time frame. Instead, the public-transport version stays close to Mito and Hitachinaka, covering Kairakuen, Hitachi Seaside Park, and Nakaminato Fish Market as a compact loop. Either way, your guide offers deep insights into local gardens, food culture, and heritage, and the itinerary can be customized within the allotted time.

This private tour is designed for travelers arriving at Ibaraki Port in Hitachinaka by cruise ship. We pick you up at the cruise terminal or hotels near the port, and a government-licensed, English-speaking guide accompanies you in a comfortable private vehicle - an easy, relaxing way to explore Ibaraki Prefecture. Enjoy a 8-hour customizable tour and choose 3 to 4sights you like most. Wander the flower hills of Hitachi Seaside Park, where blue nemophila bloom in spring and red kochia glow in autumn. See the dramatic seaside torii of Oarai Isosaki Shrine, stroll the plum gardens of Mito's Kairakuen, or marvel at the towering Ushiku Daibutsu. You can also taste fresh seafood at a fish market, see the four-tiered Fukuroda Falls, or explore samurai history at the Kodokan. Your guide tailors the day to your pace and interests. With door-to-door transport and no worries about trains or timetables, it is the perfect worry-free shore excursion before you return to your ship.

Discover the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and hidden gems of Northern Ibaraki on a fully customized private tour! Tour Highlights: Fukuroda Falls – One of Japan’s top three waterfalls, breathtaking in all seasons Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge – A thrilling 375m-long bridge with stunning valley views Hanazono Gorge – A picturesque hiking spot with vibrant autumn leaves and crystal-clear streams Oiwa Shrine – A spiritual sanctuary with over 1,000 years of history, surrounded by ancient trees Unomisaki Cape – A scenic coastal spot with panoramic ocean views and a historic lighthouse Why Choose This Private Tour? Personalized Itinerary – Tailor the tour to your interests and pace Comfort & Convenience – Private vehicle with an English-speaking guide Seasonal Beauty – Enjoy cherry blossoms, lush greenery, autumn foliage, or snowy landscapes Authentic Local Experience – Discover hidden spots and local traditions Explore Northern Ibaraki in comfort and style!

Hitachinaka City in Ibaraki Prefecture is home to the famous National Hitachi Seaside Park, where you can enjoy the four seasons with nemophilas and kochias.　 The experience venue is located almost halfway between Katsuta Station and the seaside park, so it is possible either on the way to or from sightseeing. SDGS “Mottainai”! PET bottle caps that you used to throw away after drinking can be turned into wonderful handmade works if you have the right materials and ideas. Transform them into your favorite hats in your favorite colors, including colorful twine and ribbons! The teacher, a former art teacher and accessory artist, will teach you in an easy-to-understand and detailed manner, so beginners will not have to worry. You can take home as a souvenir as a wonderful memory of your trip to Japan. We hope you will try it!

A rare opportunity to wear an authentic Yuki Tsumugi silk kimono, prized in Japan for its exceptional quality, soft texture, and understated elegance You can share a relaxed Japanese cultural experience with your partner or friends, combining fine textiles, local craftsmanship, and time together Discover Japan’s textile heritage through traditional hand-spinning and close-up artisan demonstrations, learning about UNESCO-recognized production techniques A beginner-friendly weaving workshop where you create your own silk coaster while wearing a kimono, then take it home to use and enjoy. You’re free to explore historic Yuki City at your own pace, stopping for kimono photos among traditional merchant buildings and temples before returning your kimono by 4:30 p.m.

Witness the magic of Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition, where approximately 60 top fireworks companies compete for the esteemed Prime Minister's Award. This unique event features spectacular Starmine displays alongside massive 12-inch shells, lighting up the autumn sky with around 20,000 fireworks. Relax in a reserved seating area with tables and chairs, ensuring a comfortable viewing experience. A delicious bento dinner from a local Ibaraki railway lunchbox maker is included, letting you savor local flavors while enjoying the show. - Attend one of Japan's most prestigious fireworks competitions - Enjoy approximately 20,000 fireworks from reserved seating - Experience dynamic Starmine displays and giant 12-inch fireworks - Includes a bento dinner from a local Ibaraki lunchbox maker

A very rare opportunity to wear an authentic Yuki Tsumugi silk kimono, long prized in Japan for its exceptional quality, soft texture, and understated elegance You can enjoy kimono dressing, hands-on silk crafts, and a self-guided town walk in one cultural experience Learn about UNESCO-recognized production techniques through traditional hand-spinning and close-up demonstrations by skilled artisans While wearing your kimono, you can weave your own silk mini scarf, then take it home to use and enjoy. You are free to explore historic Yuki City at your own pace, with traditional merchant buildings and temples providing beautiful backdrops for kimono photos