Central Ibaraki Tour(Lunch & Entrance fees included)
Joined 2024
Enjoy a scenic day in central Ibaraki, starting with colorful blooms at Hitachi Seaside Park, followed by fresh seafood at Nakaminato Fish Market. Discover marine life at Aqua World Oarai Aquarium, then visit the coastal Oarai Isosaki Shrine, famous for its oceanfront Torii gate.
Unwind with a coffee break at a local Mito café, and end your day with a peaceful stroll around Senbako Lake and the Sakuragawa River, known for their seasonal beauty.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Mito station, JR Katsuta station, or hotels around Mito city or Hitachinaka city
- *JR Joban line Mito station or Katsuta station: I will meet at the kaisatsu gate of the station *Hotels in Mito city or Hitachinaka city: I will meet at the lobby of the hotel
Hitachi seaside park
Hitachi Seaside Park (ひたち海浜公園) is a vast flower park in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, known for its stunning seasonal blooms. The park is especially famous for its blue nemophila flowers in spring, covering Miharashi Hill in a breathtaking sea of blue, and red kochia bushes in autumn, creating a vibrant landscape. Visitors can also enjoy tulips, sunflowers, and cosmos throughout the year. The park features walking trails, cycling paths, a small amusement park, and beautiful coastal views, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Lunch at Nakaminato Osakana fish market
Nakaminato Fish Market (那珂湊おさかな市場) is a lively seafood market in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, known for its fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere. Located near the coast, it offers a wide variety of freshly caught fish, shellfish, and seafood products at reasonable prices. Visitors can enjoy sushi, sashimi, and grilled seafood at the market’s restaurants or buy seafood to take home. The market is popular among both locals and tourists looking to experience Ibaraki’s rich seafood culture.
Oarai aquarium
Oarai Aquarium (Aqua World Oarai) is a renowned aquarium in Oarai, Ibaraki, famous for its impressive collection of marine life. It houses one of Japan’s largest shark exhibits, featuring various species, including the massive sand tiger shark. The aquarium also showcases sea lions, penguins, jellyfish, and deep-sea creatures. Visitors can enjoy entertaining dolphin and sea lion shows, hands-on touch pools, and educational displays about marine ecosystems. With its stunning oceanfront location, Aqua World Oarai offers a fun and immersive experience for all ages.
Oarai isosaki shrine
Oarai Isosaki Shrine (大洗磯前神社) is a historic Shinto shrine in Oarai, Ibaraki, known for its stunning Torii gate standing on a rocky outcrop in the ocean. Founded in 856, the shrine enshrines Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, deities believed to bring good fortune, safety, and prosperity. The "Kamiiso Torii", especially beautiful at sunrise, symbolizes the shrine’s sacred connection to the sea. The main shrine complex, located on a hill, offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a popular spot for both spiritual visitors and photographers.
Coffee break at the local cafe
Enjoying a coffee break at a local café in Mito offers a relaxing escape with a cozy atmosphere and delicious brews. Whether you prefer a trendy specialty coffee shop or a charming traditional kissaten, Mito has a variety of cafés to suit different tastes. Many cafés serve locally roasted coffee, handcrafted lattes, and seasonal sweets, often featuring Japanese and Western-style desserts. It’s the perfect way to unwind after sightseeing, chat with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment while savoring the rich flavors of Ibaraki’s coffee culture.
Senbako lake and Sakuragawa river
Senbako Lake (千波湖) is a scenic urban lake in Mito, Ibaraki, located near Kairakuen Garden. It is a popular spot for leisurely walks, jogging, and swan boat rides, with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The lake is home to swans and ducks, adding to its tranquil atmosphere.
Sakuragawa River (桜川) flows through Ibaraki, known for its picturesque cherry blossom-lined banks, especially in spring. The river has historical significance and offers peaceful riverside paths perfect for strolling or cycling. Its natural beauty and seasonal scenery make it a charming destination for nature lovers.
Ending Point
JR Mito station, JR Katsuta station, or hotels around Mito city or Hitachinaka city
Want to personalize this tour?
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
*Guide fee
*Transportation type of car: Volvo V60, toll fees, and gasoline expenses.
*Lunch at local restaurant (Japanese).
*Entrance fees(if applicable)
*parking fee
*Drinks, street foods, souvenirs, and your personal expenses
*Traveler's insurance
Tour Important Information
* This tour involves walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.
* This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
* Lunch is included in the tour, please let me know in advance if you have any food allergies or other dietary restrictions.
*This tour is closed on June 24th & 25th.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Joined 2024
About Tour Guide Keiichiro I.
Hello everyone, and welcome to North Kanto area, the land where tradition meets tranquility!
I am Keiichiro Izawa, your dedicated tour guide for today's adventure through this culturally rich and naturally stunning prefecture.
Born and raised right here in Ibaraki, I have developed a deep connection to its history, heritage, and hidden gems. With a background as an English teacher and translator, I'm here to ensure that every step of our journey is not just informative, but also enjoyable.
One of my passions lies in exploring historical sites such as shrines, temples, and castles, where the echoes of the past resonate through time. But don't worry, our exploration won't be limited to just the ancient wonders. I'm also a nature enthusiast, drawn to the majestic mountains and serene beaches that adorn our landscape.
And what's a trip without savoring the flavors of the local cuisine? I'll be your culinary guide, leading you to the best-hidden eateries where you can indulge in authentic dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.
So buckle up and get ready to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of North Kanto. Let's embark on a journey filled with history, nature, and delicious discoveries!
Reviews
Peter T.
“Surprising Ibaraki”
As an Ibaraki native, Keiichiro-san is very passionate about his home prefecture. He gave us a comprehensive insight to the places of interest and the local cuisine worth experiencing. He has a good command of English and there is no difficulty in communication. The Fukuroda Fall is spectacular and highly recommended.
Keiichiro I.
Thank you very much for choosing me for your guide. I am happy to know you liked my home town Ibaraki. During the trip, I learned a lot about your country and your life. Now, I am wishing to come to your country and enjoy the nice food and culture. Once again, thank you very much.
$308/ per group
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