Ibaraki, located northeast of Tokyo, is a prefecture known for its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and relaxed charm. Home to the stunning Hitachi Seaside Park, it draws visitors year-round with its vibrant seasonal flowers, including vast fields of blue nemophila in spring and fiery red kochia in autumn. The iconic Kairakuen Garden in Mito, one of Japan’s top three traditional gardens, is especially famous for its plum blossoms. Ibaraki also offers outdoor adventures, such as hiking Mount Tsukuba, which provides breathtaking views from its twin peaks, and visiting the rugged coastline of Oarai, where the striking Kamiiso Torii gate stands at the ocean’s edge. Known for its fresh produce and delicious local foods, such as natto (fermented soybeans) and seafood, Ibaraki is a serene destination that combines natural beauty, history, and regional flavors.
Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
At the northernmost tip of Ibaraki Prefecture, just two kilometers from the border with Fukushima, lies Izura, a series of rocky inlets overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Meaning “five inlets,” this area is celebrated not only for its striking natural beauty but also for its rich cultural and artistic heritage, particularly from the turn of the…