Japan Travel vol.05｜Ibaraki Complete Travel Guide｜Undiscovered. Love You Can Feel from Nature.
Ibaraki – The True Multi-Faceted Japan
Just 1–2 hours from Tokyo, Ibaraki will surprise you with its “depth” and “variety” once you get there.
From the scale of Fukuroda Falls—one of Japan’s Three Famous Waterfalls—to the artistic wonder of Aqua World, the breathtaking scenery and prayers at Oarai Isosaki Shrine, and the blend of nature and faith on Mount Tsukuba—
Ibaraki’s charm lies in its “you can have it all, without the crowds” style of luxury. Sea, mountains, hot springs, gourmet food—this is the ultimate side trip destination in the Kanto region.
Today, RAW JAPAN takes you through Ibaraki—Japan’s all-round local experience area that only the insiders know about.
| Table of Contents | |
|---|---|
| Ibaraki Recommended Spots | Nature, culture, experiences—4 must-see highlights in Ibaraki |
| Ibaraki Gourmet Picks | Sea, mountains, and farmlands—A journey to discover Ibaraki’s food |
| Ibaraki Stays | After sightseeing and dining, relax in accommodations steeped in Ibaraki’s air |
| Ibaraki Model Plan | Scenic views & local flavors—2-night, 3-day Ibaraki itinerary |
[Ibaraki’s Top 4 Must-See Attractions]
Nature, culture, and experiences—4 highlights you can’t miss in Ibaraki
1. Fukuroda Falls
 |  |
A living scroll of nature that changes with the seasons
Alongside Nachi (Wakayama) and Kegon (Nikko), this is one of Japan’s Three Famous Waterfalls. At 120m high and 73m wide, its sheer scale is awe-inspiring—especially during the fiery autumn leaves or when the cascade freezes into an icefall in winter. Take the elevator to the viewing platform and you’ll be greeted with a panoramic front view of the falls. Surrounding the area are hot springs and street food stalls, making it an excellent spot for both nature and relaxation. Legend has it that poet-priest Saigyo proclaimed you must visit in all four seasons to truly appreciate its beauty. From autumn to winter, the “Daigo Light” illumination event adds a magical touch.
| Name | Fukuroda Falls |
| Hours | May–Oct: 8:00–18:00 Nov: 8:00–17:00 Dec–Apr: 9:00–17:00 |
| Admission | Adults ¥500 / Children ¥300 Group discounts for 20+ people |
| Address | 3-19 Fukuroda, Daigo Town, Ibaraki 319-3523 Google Map |
| Website | Daigo Town Tourism Association |
2. Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium
 |  |
Japan’s No.1 shark collection—an ocean-themed learning park
Home to about 580 species and 68,000 creatures, this is one of the largest aquariums in the Kanto region. It boasts Japan’s largest shark exhibit, where you can see these powerful creatures swimming in massive tanks. Dolphin & sea lion shows, deep-sea creatures, touch pools, and behind-the-scenes tours make it perfect for all ages. Its oceanfront location with panoramic Pacific views also makes it an ideal rainy-day activity.
| Name | Aqua World Ibaraki Prefectural Oarai Aquarium |
| Hours | 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:00) |
| Closed | See official site for details |
| Admission | Adults ¥2,300 / Elementary & Junior High ¥1,100 / Preschoolers (3+) ¥400 / Under 3 free |
| Address | 8252-3 Isohama-cho, Oarai Town, Ibaraki 311-1301 Google Map |
| Website | Aqua World Official |
3. Oarai Isosaki Shrine
 |  |
The “Kamiiso Torii” rising from the sea will stir your soul
One of Ibaraki’s most photographed spots, famous for the torii gate standing out in the sea known as “Kamiiso no Torii.” The breathtaking sight of waves crashing against it at sunrise feels straight out of a myth. The enshrined deity, Okuninushi no Mikoto, is said to grant blessings for matchmaking, warding off misfortune, and maritime safety. From the main grounds, you get a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean—a perfect blend of solemnity and refreshment.
| Name | Oarai Isosaki Shrine |
| Hours | May–Aug: 5:30–18:00 Sep–Apr: 6:00–17:00 |
| Admission | Free |
| Address | 6890 Isohama-cho, Oarai Town, Ibaraki 311-1301 Google Map |
| Website | Oarai Isosaki Shrine Official |
4. Mount Tsukuba
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The “Mt. Fuji of the East” — a sacred peak of Kanto
Standing 877m tall, this independent peak rises suddenly from the Kanto Plain. From the summit, you can see as far as Tokyo Skytree and even Mount Fuji on clear days. It has two peaks—Nyotai (Female) and Nantai (Male)—and you can reach them easily by cable car or ropeway. The summit is also home to the Okumiya (inner shrine) of Tsukubasan Shrine, offering a taste of the region’s mountain faith traditions. Spring katakuri flowers, autumn foliage—each season brings a new face to this all-rounder destination.
| Name | Mount Tsukuba |
| Access | Cable car & ropeway available |
| Fees | Cable Car: Adults ¥590 one-way / ¥1,070 round trip Children ¥300 one-way / ¥540 round trip Ropeway: Adults ¥750 one-way / ¥1,300 round trip Children ¥380 one-way / ¥650 round trip Discounts for groups (20+) and people with disabilities |
| Hours | Cable Car: 9:00–17:00 Ropeway: 9:20–17:00 |
| Address | Tsukuba, Ibaraki 300-4352 Google Map |
| Website | Tsukuba City Official |
[Ibaraki’s Top 4 Gourmet Picks]
Sea, mountains, and farmlands—A journey to discover Ibaraki’s food
1. Osakana Tengoku Oarai Hamakko Shokudo
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A seafood paradise in a port town, with views of Oarai Port
Located inside Oarai Seaside Station, this eatery lets you enjoy fresh local seafood alongside sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Their hearty kaisendon (seafood bowls), beachside grills, and seasonal specialties like anglerfish hotpot are market-direct fresh. The terrace seating adds the sound of waves to your meal. Loved by both tourists and locals, it’s an ideal stop for lunch or dinner in Oarai.
| Name | Osakana Tengoku Oarai Hamakko Shokudo |
| Hours | Weekdays 11:00–19:00 (LO 18:30) Weekends/Holidays 10:30–19:00 (LO 18:30) |
| Closed | Open year-round (follows Oarai Seaside Station schedule) |
| Budget | ¥1,000–¥2,000 |
| Address | 11-2 Minato Chuo, Oarai Town, Ibaraki 311-1305 Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards & QR codes OK / No e-money |
| Website | Hamakko Shokudo |
2. Kaiseki Cuisine Yamaki (Daigo Town)
 |  |
Full-course dining featuring “Okukuji Shamo” — Ibaraki’s premium local chicken
Yamaki specializes in Okukuji Shamo, a brand chicken renowned for its firm texture and deep umami. Here you can savor it in multiple styles—charcoal-grilled, hotpot, even sashimi—alongside seasonal local vegetables. The simple yet rich flavors embody Ibaraki’s countryside dining culture. Set in a renovated traditional home, the atmosphere pairs perfectly with the food. Reservations are a must for their full courses.
| Name | Kaiseki Cuisine Yamaki |
| Hours | 11:00–15:00 / 17:00–20:00 |
| Closed | Wednesdays |
| Budget | ¥1,000–¥3,000 / Courses ¥4,500–¥8,500 (reservation required for 2+) |
| Address | 741-1 Daigo, Daigo Town, Ibaraki 319-3526 Google Map |
| Payment | Credit cards (VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX) / No e-money / No QR payments |
| Website | Yamaki Official |
3. Kobikian – Hitachinaka City
 |  |
A rustic soba hideaway in a renovated 80-year-old farmhouse
Since 1992, this husband-and-wife-run soba shop has offered two styles: seiro soba and hearty inaka (country) soba, both made with natural ingredients. Housed in a warm, wood-filled space, it serves only soba—no udon or rice dishes. Quantities are limited, so call ahead if traveling from afar. It’s been selected as one of the “Tabelog Soba EAST 100 Best Restaurants.”
| Name | Soba-dokoro Kobikian |
| Hours | Tue–Fri 11:30–13:10 Sat–Sun 11:30–13:10 Closes when sold out—call to confirm availability |
| Closed | Mon–Tue (weekly consecutive holidays), Sept holidays vary |
| Budget | ¥1,000–¥1,999 |
| Address | 3069-14 Higashi-Ishikawa, Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki 312-0052 Google Map |
| Payment | Cash only |
| Website | Kobikian Official |
4. Stamina Ramen Matsukichi – Mito City
 |  |
Sweet & spicy thick sauce that defines Ibaraki’s soul food
A must-visit for anyone exploring “Stamina Ramen,” Ibaraki’s beloved local dish. The soy-based sweet-spicy sauce comes loaded with liver, pumpkin, cabbage, and carrots. You can choose between the “hot” version—ramen served in hot soup—or the “cold” version—chilled noodles topped with hot sauce. Bold in both looks and flavor, it attracts fans from all over Japan. A true taste of Ibaraki in one bowl.
| Name | Stamina Ramen Matsukichi |
| Hours | 11:30–14:30 |
| Closed | Mondays & Thursdays |
| Budget | ~¥1,000 |
| Address | 1-10-11 Honcho, Mito City, Ibaraki 310-0815 Google Map |
| Payment | Cash only |
| Website | Matsukichi on IbaNavi |
[Top 5 Stays in Ibaraki]
After sightseeing and dining, unwind in accommodations that breathe Ibaraki’s air
1. Guesthouse Kominka Eguchiya – Kasumigaura City
 |  |
90-year-old farmhouse stay on the shores of Lake Kasumigaura
This renovated kominka blends traditional charm—earthen floors, exposed beams—with modern comforts. Offering dorms and private rooms, it’s suitable for solo travelers or families. English-speaking staff make it foreigner-friendly. Enjoy cycling, fishing, or lakeside walks by day, and relaxed evenings in the old-house ambiance by night. The shared kitchen encourages interaction with locals and other travelers.
| Name | Guesthouse Kominka Eguchiya |
| Check-in | 15:00–21:00 (weekday stays can check in from 13:00) |
| Check-out | ~10:00 |
| Address | 895-1 Saka, Kasumigaura City, Ibaraki 300-0214 Google Map |
| Languages | Japanese / English |
| Website | Eguchiya Official |
2. Fukuroda Onsen Omoide Romankan – Daigo Town
 |  |
Waterfalls, hot springs, and the scent of wood—pure “romance” in one inn
Just a short walk from Fukuroda Falls, this modern Japanese inn is wrapped in nature. Both indoor and open-air baths offer views of the valley, especially stunning with autumn foliage or winter snow. Inside, literary displays and retro galleries live up to the “romance” in its name. Meals feature Okukuji Shamo chicken and local vegetables for heartwarming flavors. Perfect for those who want time to slow down.
| Name | Fukuroda Onsen Omoide Romankan |
| Check-in | 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Address | 978 Fukuroda, Daigo Town, Ibaraki 319-3523 Google Map |
| Languages | Japanese / English / Chinese / Korean |
| Website | Omoide Romankan Official |
3. Futatsushima Kanko Hotel – Kitaibaraki City
 |  |
Ocean-view inn facing the iconic “Futatsushima” rock
With every room offering a view of the two rocky islets floating in the Pacific, this small 12-room inn is a quiet escape. The open-air bath “Nicho no Yu” brings you the sound of waves as you soak. Dinner is kaiseki style, featuring local seafood and seasonal anglerfish from the Joban coast. The small scale allows for attentive, warm service.
| Name | Futatsushima Kanko Hotel |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Address | 2552 Isohara, Isohara-cho, Kitaibaraki City, Ibaraki 319-1541 Google Map |
| Languages | Japanese |
| Website | Futatsushima Kanko Hotel Official |
4. Unoshima Villa – Hitachi City
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Seaside modern inn for “silence and scenery”
Right on Kawajiri Beach in Hitachi City, this six-room oceanfront stay is designed in crisp white tones. The sound of waves becomes your background music, and the kitchen focuses on additive-free, locally sourced creative dishes. The area is refreshingly underdeveloped, making it ideal for those who want the luxury of doing nothing.
| Name | Unoshima Villa |
| Check-in | 15:00 |
| Check-out | 11:00 |
| Address | 5-10-1 Higashinamekawa-cho, Hitachi City, Ibaraki 317-0052 Google Map |
| Languages | Japanese |
| Website | Unoshima Villa Official |
5. Izura Kanko Hotel Main Building / Annex Taikanso – Kitaibaraki City, Izura Coast
 |  |
Overlooking one of “Japan’s Top 100 Shores” with hot springs, seafood, and Hanazono beef
Perched along the Pacific, the hotel’s open-air baths overlook the Izura Coast, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Shores, and are highly rated by guests (4.5★ for baths). Cuisine includes local seafood, abalone, anglerfish hotpot, and the rare Hanazono beef. The main building is a classic ryokan surrounded by gardens, while the annex Taikanso is a modern 10-story building on the cliff. Guests can use baths in both.
| Name | Izura Kanko Hotel Main Building / Annex Taikanso |
| Check-in | From 15:00 |
| Check-out | 10:00 |
| Address | 722 Otsu-cho, Kitaibaraki City, Ibaraki 319-1702 Google Map |
| Languages | Japanese |
| Website | Izura Kanko Hotel Official |
[RAW JAPAN Model Plan]
Scenic views & local flavors—2-night, 3-day Ibaraki itinerary
From Pacific Ocean vistas to mountain faith traditions and countryside cuisine—
Ibaraki isn’t about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about letting nature, culture, and yourself meet at their own pace. In this plan, you’ll gaze at the sea in Oarai, be cleansed by Fukuroda Falls, and breathe deeply atop Mount Tsukuba. Nothing is flashy, but by the end, you’ll think, “I want to come back.”
This schedule is for active travelers—adjust stay times if you prefer a slower pace.
DAY 1｜Sea × Culture × Aquarium
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 09:00 | Take the Limited Express Hitachi from Ueno Station to Mito Station (~1h 20m) |
| 10:30 | Rent a car and head to Oarai (~30m) |
| 11:00 | Visit Oarai Isosaki Shrine & photograph the Kamiiso Torii |
| 12:00 | Lunch at Hamakko Shokudo Osakana Tengoku |
| 13:30 | Explore Aqua World for about 2 hours |
| 15:30 | Drive to Hitachi City (~1h) |
| 16:30 | Check in at Unoshima Villa |
| Evening | Enjoy seaside tranquility and dinner |
DAY 2｜Waterfall × Local Cuisine × Onsen
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 08:30 | Depart for Daigo Town (~1h 30m) |
| 10:00 | Visit Fukuroda Falls (~1h including viewing platforms) |
| 11:30 | Lunch at Yamaki for Okukuji Shamo dishes |
| 13:00 | Stroll around Fukuroda Onsen area & enjoy a foot bath |
| 14:30 | Early check-in at Omoide Romankan for a relaxing onsen soak |
| Evening | Kaiseki dinner & hot spring time |
DAY 3｜Mountain × Panorama × Soba
| Time | Plan |
|---|---|
| 08:30 | Drive to Mount Tsukuba (~2h) |
| 10:30 | Sightsee via cable car or ropeway (~1–1.5h) |
| 12:30 | Head to Hitachinaka (~1h) |
| 13:30 | Lunch at Kobikian for hand-made soba |
| 15:00 | Return to Mito Station (~30m), return rental car |
| 16:00 | Take Limited Express Hitachi back to Tokyo (~1h 20m) |
Travel Tips & Notes
⚠️ Rent a car for efficiency
Public transport can be limited, especially to Fukuroda Falls, Daigo Town, and Mount Tsukuba. Mito and Hitachi stations are convenient rental hubs.
⚠️ Dress for outdoor spots
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes for waterfalls and mountain trails. Bring a jacket for Mount Tsukuba, even in warmer months.
⚠️ Short business hours
Many local attractions and eateries close around 17:00–18:00. Aim to have lunch by 14:00.
⚠️ Carry some cash
Cards and e-payments aren’t always accepted, especially in rural restaurants and inns. ATMs may be scarce outside cities.
⚠️ Seasonal beauty
Fukuroda Falls and Mount Tsukuba change dramatically with the seasons—spring greens, summer cool, autumn foliage, winter snow. Tailor your plan accordingly.
RAW JAPAN Comment
Ibaraki’s trips might not have the obvious “instant thrills” of big cities or theme parks.
Instead, you’ll get ocean sounds, waterfall roars, mountain breezes, and the scent of hot springs—a slow, five-senses immersion.
It’s not about ticking boxes, but about soaking in scenery, meals, and encounters at a gentle pace.
The taste of local produce, the comfort of hot spring inns, and the shifting sky colors will quietly fill your heart.
Ibaraki is “close yet deep.”
You’ll realize you don’t need to travel far to have a truly rich journey.
This article was independently produced by RAW JAPAN with no sponsorships or ads from the facilities mentioned.
All prices are as of publication—check official sites for the latest info.
Photos are for illustration—actual dishes and presentations may vary.
Some accommodations may charge a lodging or bathing tax—confirm in advance.
The Japan Travel series offers a condensed guide to the very best of Japan’s regions. From must-see sights and local experiences to food and lodging, everything you need to know before your trip is right here. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, you’re bound to discover something new.