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If you have done the things to do in Japan, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Ushiku.
Exploring Ushiku is like unraveling a captivating puzzle box – with each adventure bringing you one step closer to discovering the mesmerizing secrets of this enchanting city.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ushiku:
1. Ushiku Daibutsu
Ushiku Daibutsu, also known as the Great Buddha of Ushiku, is a bronze statue of Buddha located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb up to the observation deck located inside the statue and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
There is also a museum and temple complex on the grounds to explore.
Don’t miss: The impressive statue stands at 120 meters tall, making it one of the tallest statues in the world.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. There is a small fee to climb to the observation deck.
Consider bringing a snack or picnic to enjoy while taking in the view.
2. Tsukuba Space Center
Tsukuba Space Center is a space science research center located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour the facility and see exhibits on space exploration, view life-sized models of rockets, and watch live rocket launches.
Don’t miss: The H-IIA and H-IIB rockets launches are must-see events, especially if you can witness it from the observation deck.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the schedule of rocket launches ahead of time, as they can be postponed or canceled due to weather conditions.
Also, plan to arrive early to get a good viewing spot on the observation deck.
3. Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge
Ryujin Big Suspension Bridge is a 375-meter-long pedestrian bridge located in the town of Ushiku in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The bridge offers a thrilling experience as it sways and bounces in the wind, providing a unique panoramic view of the picturesque valley.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take stunning photos, and feel an adrenaline rush with the suspension bridge’s swinging sensation.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding area, including the verdant mountains and the Ryujin Dam, are the highlights of the bridge.
The glowing illumination of the bridge at night is especially stunning.
Insider travel tips: – It’s recommended to visit the bridge during the weekdays to avoid crowds.
4. Ryumon Waterfall
Ryumon Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a short hike through the forest to reach the waterfall, which drops 30 meters into a serene pool below.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and the sound of water falling is mesmerizing.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the waterfall.
Insider travel tips: – Wear appropriate footwear for the hike, as the trails can be slippery.
5. Mount Tsukuba
A scenic mountain located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan that attracts nature enthusiasts and avid hikers alike.
What to see or do: Take a cable car to the top of the mountain for stunning panoramic views, different hiking trails to suit all levels of fitness, visit the Tsukuba Shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of wisdom and study, and enjoy the natural beauty of Tsukuba’s flora and fauna.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the observatory and the rock formations of the two peaks, Nyotai-san and Nantai-san.
Insider travel tips: Visit Mount Tsukuba during the week to avoid the crowds and to enjoy a peaceful hike. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and hiking snacks.
Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you hike as it can get quite windy at the top.
6. Kasama Inari Shrine
A famous Shinto shrine located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can see hundreds of red torii gates lining the path up the mountain to the main shrine. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of fertility, agriculture, and industry.
There are also other smaller shrines on the premises and a beautiful garden.
Don’t miss: The annual Kasama Inari Shrine Festival in October, which features a parade, traditional performances, and food stalls.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike up to the shrine. As with any shrine in Japan, be respectful of the customs and traditions.
7. Amabiki Kannon
Amabiki Kannon is a 30-meter tall statue of the goddess Kannon located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the statue for panoramic views of the surrounding area. There is also a gift shop and restaurant on site.
Don’t miss: The stunning illumination of the statue at night, which makes for a truly unforgettable sight.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and long wait times for the elevator to the top.
Also, consider visiting during the off-season for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
8. Jukkoku Pass
Jukkoku Pass is a scenic mountain pass located in Ushiku, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the top of the pass.
Take a leisurely hike along the well-marked trails, or go for a drive along the winding road that runs through the pass.
Don’t miss: Stop by the Jukkoku Pass Visitors Center, which offers exhibits on the local flora and fauna, as well as an observation deck that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: – Visit Jukkoku Pass in autumn for breathtaking views of the changing colors of the leaves.
9. Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition
Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition is an annual fireworks competition held in Tsuchiura city, located in Ibaraki prefecture, Japan. Ushiku is a nearby city in Ibaraki prefecture known for its impressive Buddha statue.
What to see or do: The Tsuchiura All Japan Fireworks Competition is a spectacular display of fireworks with participants including pyrotechnic teams from Japan and overseas.
The competition takes place over two days, and visitors can enjoy the show from different viewing locations around Sakuragawa Reservoir.
Ushiku’s main attraction is the Ushiku Daibutsu, a tall bronze statue of Buddha that visitors can climb to the top for a scenic view.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the creative and colorful fireworks display that brings together the best pyrotechnic teams in Japan and the world. Also, don’t forget to visit Ushiku Daibutsu, the third tallest statue in the world.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the fireworks competition. It is recommended to bring a picnic blanket or chairs for comfort.
If visiting Ushiku, be sure to bring comfortable shoes as there are many steps to climb to reach the top of the Ushiku Daibutsu.
10. Bandai Bridge
Bandai Bridge is a historic bridge located in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll on the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the river and surrounding landscape. The bridge is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in November.
Don’t miss: The stunning night view of the bridge when it is illuminated after sunset. It is a great spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the reflection of the bridge in the river.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during the early morning when there are fewer tourists and the air is fresh.
11. Aeon Mall Tsukuba
Aeon Mall Tsukuba is a massive shopping complex located in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: The mall has over 400 shops and restaurants, offering a wide variety of clothing, electronics, home goods, cosmetics, and souvenirs. There is also a cinema, arcade, and play area for children.
Don’t miss: The mall’s impressive food court, which features a wide variety of Japanese and international cuisine.
Be sure to try some local specialties like tsukemen noodles and tsukuba chicken, or indulge in some high-end sushi or wagyu beef.
Insider travel tips: Plan to spend a few hours at the mall, as there is so much to see and do. If you’re traveling by car, take advantage of the free parking.
The mall can get quite crowded on weekends and holidays, so it’s best to visit on a weekday if possible.
12. Doho Park
Doho Park is a sprawling public park located in Ushiku, Japan that connects with the Takasago walking trail.
What to see or do: The park has plenty of space for picnics, sports, and relaxation.
It is home to a bird sanctuary, beautiful gardens, a large pond for fishing and boating, and a playground for children.
The walking trail offers stunning views of the surrounding area and connects to several shrines and temples.
Don’t miss: The highlight of Doho Park is the vibrant flower garden, which is in full bloom during the spring and summer months.
The park also hosts seasonal events such as cherry blossom and autumn foliage festivals.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should arrive early to beat the crowds, as the park can get crowded during peak tourist season. Renting a boat on the pond is a fun way to take in the views.
There are also several food stalls and souvenir shops located around the park.
13. Ibaraki Flower Park
Ibaraki Flower Park is a vast horticultural park located in Ushiku, Japan, showcasing an impressive collection of flowers and plants.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore different themed gardens arranged into zones, including fields of narcissus, tulips, sunflowers, roses, and a 360-degree panoramic flower greenhouse.
There is also a Ferris wheel with views of the park, a playground area, and a petting zoo with alpacas, rabbits, and goats.
Don’t miss: The park’s iconic giant flower clock, one of the world’s largest, made of over 20,000 stunning flowers, is a must-see. In the evening, a fantastic projection mapping illuminates the clock’s beauty.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the peak season, particularly in spring and autumn, when the park is filled with an abundance of vibrant blooming flowers.
14. Fujimiya Memorial Park
A sprawling park filled with cherry blossom trees and other natural attractions in Ushiku, Japan.
What to see or do: Admire the beauty of the cherry blossom trees that bloom in the park during spring, take a stroll along the walking paths, enjoy a picnic or barbeque with family and friends, and visit the nearby shrines and temples for a spiritual experience.
Don’t miss: The spectacular view of the Ushiku Daibutsu, the world’s third tallest statue of Buddha, that can be seen from the park.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the cherry blossom season in late March to early April for a breathtaking view of the blossoms.
Bring your own food and drinks for a picnic as there are no food vendors inside the park. The park is also a great place to view the autumn foliage.
15. Tsukuba Wanwan Land
A theme park that offers visitors the opportunity to interact with a variety of dogs and puppies.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the park and pet or play with the dogs, watch dog shows and performances, and participate in activities like dog training and dog-powered carts.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to take a photo with a Shiba Inu, which is included in the admission fee.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid large crowds and prepare to spend several hours at the park as there are plenty of activities to enjoy.
Visitors should also wear comfortable clothing and footwear as they will be walking around the park and interacting with dogs. Don’t forget to bring some cash as some activities require additional fees.