Things to Do in Ibaraki

A thorough collection on local history from ancient to modern times, including samurai armour and farming tools. Well laid out, with English labels on main exhibits.

🕐 Open Tue-Sun 9:30am-5pm, closed Mondays (or Tue if Mon holiday), closed year-end and New Year

💡 The permanent exhibition is free. Special temporary shows cost extra. Allow 1-2 hours. The building is on a large parkland campus.

One of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, founded in 660 BC. The main hall is a designated Important Cultural Property. The surrounding forest feels ancient and peaceful.

🕐 Shrine grounds open 24 hours; museum open 9am-5pm, closed year-end and New Year

💡 Visit on the first day of the month for the monthly purification ceremony, which is free to watch. The museum on site costs a small fee.

A 120m-wide, 73m-tall waterfall often called the 'Niagara of Japan'. Best viewed from the observation deck; in winter parts freeze into dramatic icicles.

🕐 Open daily 8am-6pm (until 5pm Nov-Feb)

💡 The waterfall itself is free. The tunnel elevator to the bottom costs a small fee but offers a unique perspective. Come in autumn for foliage.

One of Japan's three great gardens, famous for plum blossoms. A large, strolling garden with walking paths, bamboo groves and teahouses. Entry is cheap.

🕐 Open daily 6am-5pm, closed 29 Dec-1 Jan

💡 Go on a weekday early morning to avoid crowds. The garden is free for under-15s and over-65s.

Sprawling coastal park famous for seasonal flower fields: nemophila in spring, kochia in autumn. Also has cycling paths, a small amusement area, and a nature trail.

🕐 Open daily 9:30am-5pm, closed Mondays (or Tue if Mon holiday), closed 31 Dec-1 Jan

💡 Check the official bloom calendar online before visiting. The park is huge; rent a bicycle at the gate to cover more ground.