Nature abounds in the city! Walking around the photogenic cities of Mito and Kasama
Let's escape the crowds and enjoy a delightful weekend: exploring spectacular beauty spots and enjoying savory cuisine!Mito city and Kasama city in Ibaraki prefecture are the perfect destinations for a self-indulgent getaway.
These photogenic spots are easily accessible on foot or by bus from the local stations.
Discovering the best walking routes in the photogenic cities of Mito and Kasama
- Lake Senba
- Kairakuen Garden
- Restaurant Ijima
- Kasama Inari Jinja Shrine
- Kasama Inari Monzen Street
A leisurely stroll from station to scenic view
Mito city is located only 70 minutes away from Tokyo by express train, making it easily accessible from the Kanto region and other parts of Japan.
The city is within walking distance from the station and dotted with several scenic nature spots.
Upon arriving at Mito station, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the cherry blossom-lined path from the station’s south exit to Lake Senba.
After approximately 15 minutes, you arrive at Senba Park, a vast park with a sparkling lake.
Located in the center of the city and easily accessible, Senba Park is a beloved oasis for residents.
The 3-kilometer promenade around the lakeside is paved and mostly flat, making it perfect for easy strolling.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy cafes and teahouses overlooking the lake.
Located in the center of the city and easily accessible from anywhere, Senba Park is a beloved oasis for residents.The 3-kilometer promenade around the lakeside is paved and nearly flat, making it easy to walk along and perfect for strolling.
There are also cafes and teahouses along the way that overlook the lake.
Swans swim gracefully on the lake throughout the year. However, from December to the end of March, whooper swans and red-winged black swans with red beaks come to rest on the lake.
These swans may also be seen walking along the promenade, having become accustomed to their environment.
Lake Senba is not only a picturesque location, but also the venue for one of Japan's most impressive fireworks displays.
The Mito Kairakuen Firework Festival takes place at Lake Senba and boasts the highest firework display in Japan, making it a unique and unforgettable experience.
The sight of the night sky and the lake illuminated by the colorful fireworks is a breathtaking spectacle that can only be seen in Mito city. As a result, the event attracts a large number of people every time it is held.
In the past, Lake Senba served as the outer moat of Mito Castle, but was subsequently reclaimed during the late Taisho period (1912-1926) and early Showa period (1926–1989) and transformed into the gourd-shaped lake we see today.
Looking up from the lake, visitors can see the beautiful Kairakuen Garden, a testament to the elegance of the Edo period (1603-1868).
The garden was established in 1842 by Nariaki Tokugawa, the feudal lord of the Mito domain, and is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themself in Japan's rich history and culture.
Kairakuen Garden is renowned as one of the "Three Famous Gardens of Japan", alongside Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa City and Korakuen Garden in Okayama City. The garden is especially famous for its stunning displays of plum and cherry blossoms in early spring, lush bamboo groves in summer and vibrant maple trees in autumn. Visitors can also enjoy the enchanting view of Lake Senba, which glimmers beyond the garden's blooming flowers.
Whether you visit during the spring, summer, or fall, the Kairakuen Garden is a must-see destination that showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Japan.
The name "Kairakuen" is derived from the Japanese words "Kai" meaning "together" and "Rakuen" meaning "enjoyment," symbolizing the garden's purpose as a place where people can come together and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The popularity of Kairakuen Garden is evident not only in the number of tourists who visit but also in the large number of locals who stroll through the garden.
Lake Senba Information
【Address】3080 Senba-cho, Mito, Ibaraki
【Phone】
029-244-2888 (Mito City Parks Association)
【Website】
https://www.guidoor.jp/en/places/5817
Kairakuen Park Information
【Address】1-1251, Mikawa, Mito, Ibaraki
【Phone】
029-244-5454 (Kairakuen Park Center)
【Opening hours】
6:00 - 19:00 (mid-February to September 30th), 7:00 - 18:00 (October 1st to mid-February)
【Website】
https://www.guidoor.jp/en/places/5813
For lunch, try the Hitachiniku beef, which slowly melts in your mouth!
If you've been on your feet all day and find yourself feeling famished, a must-try local delicacy in Ibaraki is Hitachigyu, or Hitachiniku beef.
This Japanese black beef is rated A, B, 5, or 4 and is raised by designated producers in the prefecture. Known for its robust flavor, sweetness, and fine marbling, Hitachigyu is a true culinary delight.
For those looking to indulge in this premium beef, the Restaurant Ijima is the perfect spot. This establishment is directly operated by a butcher shop, ensuring that you can savor top-quality cuts of steak or burgers in a relaxed atmosphere.
As you savor the tender and juicy meat, you'll appreciate the delicate flavor of the fat that perfectly complements the beef's texture.
After a day exploring Lake Senba and Kairakuen Garden, a meal at Restaurant Ijima will be twice as satisfying.
Restaurant Iijima Information
【Address】2-251-10 Miwa, Mito, Ibaraki
【Phone】
029-252-8115
【Opening hours】
11:00 - 21:30 (L.O. 20:00)
【Regular closure】
Please note that December 29th is lunch only and closed from December 30th to January 3rd.
Recharge your energy at one of Japan's three great Inari shrines!
After enjoying breathtaking views and gourmet food, make sure to visit the sacred “power spot” of Kasama city, which is located adjacent to Mito city.
The Kasama Inari Shrine is one of the three major Inari shrines in Japan, attracting numerous visitors who seek prosperity and good fortune.
The over 1300 year old shrine was founded in 651.
As visitors pass through the grand Kasama-red torii gate, they will be greeted by stone statues of foxes, each with their unique expressions.
Other attractions include the intricately carved roof of the main shrine, a large walnut tree, and a "fox mound" located behind the main shrine, which is believed to bring good fortune.
Visitors can also enjoy an all year-round view of flowers, including the Yae no Wisteria, a prefectural natural treasure that is in full bloom during early May, and the Kasama Chrysanthemum Festival, which showcases vibrant chrysanthemums from late October to late November.
After visiting the shrine, take a leisurely stroll, and indulge in some of the local delicacies: such as freshly baked dumplings, or "Kasama Inari Sushi", a unique type of sushi made with buckwheat noodles, walnuts, maitake mushrooms, or "Soba Inari" yam soba noodles.
Spending a day exploring scenic spots and enjoying local cuisine at your own pace is truly refreshing, leaving you feeling revitalized and rejuvenated.
Kasama Inari Jinja Shrine and Kasama Inari Monzen Street Information
◎ Kasama Inari Jinja Shrine【Address】
1, Kasama, Kasama, Ibaraki
【Phone】
0296-73-0001
【Website】
https://www.guidoor.jp/en/places/6228
◎ Kasama Inari Monzen Street
【Website】
https://www.guidoor.jp/en/places/6229
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