Things to Do in Ibaraki
Hand-picked sights and experiences across Ibaraki.
When to catch the colours in Ibaraki?
Average cherry blossom and autumn foliage dates for Ibaraki, from the Japan Meteorological Agency's 1991–2020 normals — the fortnight to aim for, not a promise for any particular year.
- Cherry blossom
- First flowersMar 30
- Full bloomApr 6
- Autumn foliage
- Leaves turnNov 20
- Peak viewingNov 20 – Dec 4
Where to look next?
The prefectures we've mapped so far, nearest to Ibaraki first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hitachi Seaside Park — the blue nemophila hills of spring and crimson kochia of autumn — plus Kairakuen in Mito, one of Japan's three great gardens, and the giant Ushiku Daibutsu buddha. Most of it works as easy Tokyo day trips.
Mid-April to early May, when Miharashi Hill turns solid sky-blue; the kochia bushes burn red in mid-October. Both windows are short and busy — go on a weekday morning if you can.
Yes — limited expresses reach Mito in about 80 minutes, with buses on to the park; direct seasonal buses also run in bloom season. Kairakuen is best in late February–March during the plum festival.