Day Trip to Ibaraki from Tokyo: Explore Nature and Culture

Day 1: Nature and Culture

Ibaraki, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market, Tokyo

Enjoy a fresh sushi or traditional Japanese breakfast at one of the many vendors before departure. Opens early around 5:00am, ensuring you can fuel up before your trip.
JPY1500, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel from Tokyo to Hitachi Station, Ibaraki

Take the JR Joban Line Limited Express from Ueno Station to Hitachi Station; the journey takes about 90 minutes, offering scenic views as you head north.
JPY3200, 1h30m

10:15am

Kairakuen Garden

Visit one of Japan’s three great gardens, famous for its plum blossoms and seasonal beauty. It’s open from 6:00am to 7:00pm, so you have plenty of time to explore.
JPY410, 1h30m

11:45am

Walk to Kodokan Museum

Explore the historic Kodokan, the oldest samurai school, providing insight into Japan’s Edo period culture. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
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12:45pm

Lunch at Hitachi Station Area

Dine at local specialty restaurants serving fresh seafood and Hitachi beef, such as Tamatebako, known for its seasonal tastes and warm atmosphere.
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1:45pm

Hitachi Seaside Park

Spend the afternoon at this vast park, famous for its seasonal flower gardens like nemophila (baby blue eyes) and kochia bushes. Open from 9:30am to 5:00pm; entry fee applies.
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3:45pm

Travel to Fukuroda Falls

Take local transportation or taxi to Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan’s top three waterfalls, known for its four-tiered cascades and scenic beauty.
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4:45pm

Fukuroda Falls Exploration

Enjoy walking around the falls area including viewing platforms. It is open throughout the day, sunset offers beautiful light. Comfortable shoes recommended.
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5:45pm

Return Trip to Tokyo

Head back to Hitachi Station by taxi or bus and take the JR Limited Express back to Ueno Station in Tokyo, concluding your day trip.
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8:00pm

Dinner in Tokyo – Ueno Area

After returning, enjoy dinner at Innsyoutei Ueno, a traditional kaiseki restaurant serving seasonal Japanese cuisine, open until 9:30pm.
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