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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Mito.
Welcome to Mito, a city that blooms with endless possibilities to discover and explore.
From the vibrant parks that blossom in every corner, to the sweet melodies that echo through the streets, Mito is a symphony of sights and sounds waiting to be experienced.
Let’s dive into the kaleidoscope of culture and adventure that awaits you in this captivating city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Mito:
1. Kairakuen
Kairakuen is a stunning garden located in Mito, Japan. It is considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan and was founded in the 1840s.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the picturesque landscape, which features over 3,000 plum trees, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The garden also has a tea house, where visitors can experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Don’t miss: The plum blossom festival, which takes place in February and March, is a must-see.
During this time, the garden is transformed into a sea of pink and white, and there are food and craft stalls to explore.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the garden is quite large and hilly. Also, consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
2. Kodokan
The Kodokan is a traditional Japanese garden located in Mito, Ibaraki.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the garden and enjoy its beautiful scenery filled with seasonal flowers, trees, and ponds. Admire the carefully chosen stones and bridges that complement the garden’s picturesque landscape.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the Tokiwa Shrine, dedicated to the Tokugawa family. Another highlight is the famous Kiku no I, a large pond surrounded by cherry trees.
Insider travel tips:
3. Mito Station
Mito Station is a major transportation hub located in the center of Mito City, in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
It is served by the JR Joban Line and Suigun Line, as well as the Mito Line of the Metropolitan Intercity Railway Company.
What to see or do: The station itself is a modern and well-designed building with a variety of shops and restaurants.
It also serves as a convenient access point to some of Mito City’s main attractions, such as the Kairakuen Garden and the Kodokan, both of which are within walking distance.
Don’t miss: Kairakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, is a must-visit spot in Mito.
Known for its plum blossoms, which bloom in late February to early March, Kairakuen Garden is also a popular destination for picnics and strolls throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: If you’re planning on visiting the Kairakuen Garden, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Additionally, be sure to check the train schedule ahead of time as there are limited express trains that stop at Mito Station.
4. Mito Castle Ruins
The Mito Castle Ruins are the remains of a castle that was built in the 17th century in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins and see the remains of the castle walls, moats, and gates. There is also a museum on site that displays artifacts and tells the history of the castle.
Don’t miss: The best time to visit the Mito Castle Ruins is during the cherry blossom season in April when the surrounding park is covered in beautiful pink blossoms.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved when exploring the ruins. Also, bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the castle and the surrounding park.
5. Tokiwa Shrine
A Shinto shrine located in Mito, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful shrine architecture and serene environment, participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies.
Don’t miss: The annual Tokiwa Festival in May, featuring a vibrant parade and performances.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week to avoid crowds, learn about Shinto customs beforehand to fully appreciate the experience.
6. Mito Komon Shrine
Mito Komon Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Tokyo, Japan, dedicated to the famous historical figure, Tokugawa Mitsukuni, who is also known as Mito Komon.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll around the beautiful garden and explore the main hall of the shrine, which houses several artifacts and documents related to Mitsukuni’s life and accomplishments.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the chance to witness a traditional Japanese wedding at the shrine. The ceremony is a breathtaking sight and a beautiful representation of Japanese culture.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Be respectful of the shrine’s rules and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering the main hall and refraining from taking photographs in certain areas.
7. Mito Art Museum
The Mito Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in the city of Mito, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum features a range of modern and contemporary art exhibits, showcasing the works of both domestic and international artists. Visitors can also explore the museum’s beautiful and tranquil Japanese garden.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the museum’s permanent collection, which includes stunning works by renowned artists such as Marc Chagall, Pablo Picasso, and Joan Miró.
Insider travel tips: – The museum’s garden is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season, which usually occurs in late March to early April.
8. Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History
The Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History is a museum located in Mito, Japan, exhibiting the history and culture of Ibaraki prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the three floors of the museum and its various exhibit rooms showcasing the history and culture of Ibaraki prefecture from prehistoric times to the Edo period.
The museum also holds themed exhibitions highlighting specific aspects of Ibaraki’s history and culture.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive collection of archeological finds, including Jomon period pottery, as well as samurai armor and weapons from the Edo period.
Also, be sure to check out the museum’s picturesque Japanese garden with a traditional tea house.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and to fully explore the museum’s exhibits. Consider renting an audio guide for a more in-depth experience.
Additionally, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the museum has several floors of exhibits to explore. Finally, take advantage of the museum’s convenient location near Mito Station to explore other nearby attractions in the city.
9. Sakurayama Shrine
A stunning Shinto shrine located in the heart of Mito city, Ibaraki.
What to see or do: The shrine is known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring. Visitors can also explore the tranquil grounds and learn about the history and culture of the shrine.
Don’t miss: The main hall of the shrine, which features intricate wood carvings and a striking red lacquer exterior.
Also, make sure to visit during the annual Mito Komon Festival, held in November, when the shrine is decorated with ornate lanterns and traditional Japanese performances take place.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine. Don’t forget to try the local specialty, natto (fermented soybeans), which is served at many restaurants in the surrounding area.
10. Fudoki no Oka Park
Fudoki no Oka Park is a vast public park situated in the heart of Mito City, Japan. Covering over 200 hectares of land, the park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of activities and attractions, including hiking trails, spacious lawns for picnics and relaxation, a large pond for boating and fishing, and a beautiful Japanese garden with a traditional tea house.
Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the park’s observatory, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular features of Fudoki no Oka Park is the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in the spring.
Visitors should not miss the chance to witness this stunning natural spectacle, which attracts crowds from all over Japan.
Insider travel tips: – The park is particularly beautiful in the autumn, when the leaves of the trees turn golden and red.
11. Mito Toshogu Shrine
Mito Toshogu Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Mito City, Japan dedicated to the memory of the famous Japanese feudal lord, Tokugawa Ieyasu.
What to see or do: The shrine’s impressive architecture and vivid colors make it a must-visit destination. There are several buildings and gateways to explore, including the main hall, the Romon Gate, and the Karamon Gate.
Visitors can also observe ceremonies honoring Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Don’t miss: The shrine’s moss garden is a stunning sight to behold. The intricate patterns of the moss-covered ground are a true marvel of nature.
Insider travel tips: Visit the shrine in the fall when the leaves turn bright red and yellow, creating an incredible backdrop for the colorful shrine buildings.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty, natto soba, located near the shrine grounds.
12. Joyo Geibun Center
Joyo Geibun Center is an art museum located in Mito City, Japan that showcases various art pieces from contemporary to traditional Japanese art.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy viewing a diverse range of artworks such as paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum has a permanent collection as well as special exhibitions that change throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the outdoor sculpture garden, which is home to various contemporary and modern art pieces. The garden also offers a peaceful ambiance as well as beautiful views of the surrounding nature.
Insider travel tips: The museum is closed on Mondays and during the New Year’s holidays.
13. Mito City Museum
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Mito City in Japan.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibitions on the history of Mito, including displays on the Tokugawa era, the Edo period, and the development of the city through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods.
Don’t miss: The impressive collection of traditional Japanese art, ceramics, and pottery, as well as the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.
Insider travel tips: – Check the museum’s website for special exhibitions and events.
14. Mito Municipal Botanical Park
The Mito Municipal Botanical Park is a beautiful and expansive park that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
What to see or do: Explore the peaceful and well-manicured gardens, take a stroll along the walking paths, have a picnic and enjoy the views of the pond, and visit the tropical and subtropical greenhouses.
Don’t miss: The Japanese garden, which features a large pond and carefully placed rocks and plants to create a peaceful and serene environment.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April for stunning views of cherry blossom trees in full bloom.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquillity of the park. Also, don’t forget to bring insect repellent during the summer months.
15. Akatsuka Forest Park
A beautiful urban park in Mito, Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll among the towering trees and colorful flowers. Kids will love the playgrounds, while adults can enjoy a round of golf.
There are also tennis courts and a BBQ area for groups.
Don’t miss: The huge cherry blossom trees in spring are simply stunning. Visit during the autumn season to see the leaves turn into vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch on the green lawns. There’s plenty of shade and benches to relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Don’t forget to bring your camera for some amazing nature shots. Arrive early on weekends to grab a spot for a BBQ party as they tend to be quite popular.