Japan is brimming with incredible destinations, but Ibaraki Prefecture often gets overlooked. This coastal gem, just a short hop from Tokyo, offers breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and, of course, incredible food. I recently embarked on a four-day road trip through Ibaraki, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of spectacular. If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese adventure away from the usual tourist traps, Ibaraki is your answer. Rent a car (it’s surprisingly affordable!), and get ready to explore.
Day 1: Hitomi Seaside Park – A Floral Wonderland
My first stop was the Hitachi Seaside Park, and it immediately stole my heart. This park is massive, about eight times the size of New York City’s Central Park! Imagine rolling hills covered in vibrant flowers stretching as far as the eye can see, all against the backdrop of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. It’s no wonder it’s been named one of Japan’s 31 most scenic spots by CNN.
Depending on the season, you'll be treated to a different floral spectacle. May brings a sea of blue nemophila, while late September and October paint the hillsides crimson with kochia. The park offers bike rentals, making it easy to explore every nook and cranny. Don’t miss the Miharashi Hill for panoramic views of the flowers, the ocean, and the surrounding landscape. And keep an eye out for the adorable themed food trucks – the nemophila ice cream was almost too cute to eat!
Day 2: Gardens, Waterfalls, and Sacred Shores
Day two was all about exploring Ibaraki’s cultural and natural wonders. I started at Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's three most famous gardens, and the second largest urban park in the world, second only to Central Park. Here I strolled through meticulously landscaped grounds, admiring the seasonal blooms, including plums, wisteria, and azaleas. I also indulged in a delicious coffee and tiramisu at a charming café within the garden. The tiramisu was heavenly, the perfect blend of rich coffee and creamy sweetness.
Next, I journeyed to Fukuroda Falls, formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago. This majestic waterfall is one of Japan's top three and is truly a sight to behold. From various viewing platforms, I witnessed the cascading water in all its glory. Depending on the season, the falls take on a different character, even freezing into a stunning icefall in winter.
Finally, I visited the awe-inspiring Oarai Isosaki Shrine, home to the iconic Kamiiso Torii gate. This sacred gate stands proudly on a rocky outcrop in the ocean, symbolizing a place where gods descend. It’s a powerful and spiritual location, especially at dawn when the rising sun illuminates the gate, creating a truly magical experience. It’s worth braving the early morning crowds and chilly air to witness this spectacle. I managed to capture some incredible photos that look like prize-winning shots!
Day 3: Culinary Delights in Oarai
After two days of sightseeing, I was ready for some serious foodie adventures. Oarai, a charming coastal town, did not disappoint. My first stop was Matsushin, a local favorite known for its authentic Kanto-style unagi (eel) rice bowls. Unlike the crispy Kansai-style unagi, Kanto unagi is steamed after grilling, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture with a rich, smoky flavor. The generous portion of thick, juicy eel over perfectly cooked rice was incredibly satisfying, especially when paired with a bowl of flavorful eel liver soup. The entire meal was a steal at around $25!
Next, I couldn't resist a visit to the Mentai Park, a mentaiko (spicy cod roe) theme park. This quirky attraction showcases the mentaiko production process and offers a wide array of mentaiko-themed snacks, from crackers to steamed buns. But the real highlight? Mentaiko ice cream! It sounds bizarre, but the salty mentaiko surprisingly complements the sweet ice cream, creating a unique and addictive flavor.
Day 4: Nakaminato Fish Market – A Seafood Lover's Paradise
My final day in Ibaraki brought me to the Nakaminato Fish Market, a bustling hub of fresh seafood. This is where the locals go for their seafood fix, and it’s easy to see why. Mountains of fresh catches are displayed, with prices that are unbelievably affordable. I saw a local mom buy three overflowing baskets of fresh seafood for what seemed like pennies. I couldn't resist indulging in some freshly shucked oysters, the size of my palm, for just a couple of dollars each. They were incredibly fresh and bursting with flavor.
Afterward, I headed to the nearby Ichiba Sushi, a local favorite for kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi). The quality and variety of the sushi here were outstanding, with prices about half of what you'd find in Tokyo. I especially loved the shirasu (whitebait) gunkan-maki, a local delicacy I’d never tried before. The portions were enormous – the toppings practically spilled over the rice! It was a seafood feast fit for a king, and I left feeling completely satisfied.
Ibaraki's Top Attractions: A Quick Guide
| Attraction | Description | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Hitachi Seaside Park | A massive park with stunning seasonal flower displays. | Spring (Nemophila), Autumn (Kochia) |
| Kairakuen Garden | One of Japan's three most famous gardens, with beautiful plum blossoms in spring. | Spring (Plum Blossoms) |
| Fukuroda Falls | A majestic waterfall that transforms with the seasons. | Year-round |
| Oarai Isosaki Shrine | Home to the iconic Kamiiso Torii gate, a sacred spot for viewing sunrise. | Sunrise |
| Nakaminato Fish Market | A bustling fish market offering fresh, affordable seafood and delicious sushi. | Year-round |
