[2025 Mito Attraction] Travel Guide for Kairakuen (Updated Mar)

Decided to head to Kairakuen so we drove and parked next to the park. It was a lovely day, sunny and windy. Lovely swan posing elegantly next to the cherry blossom tree. During the season, all you need to do is just find a park and walk in, you will find yourself surrounded by lovely flowers. Anyway it was until the very end of the walk that we realized we have not entered the Kairakuen which requires entrance fee. We have thought the park that we walked was Kairakuen. 😅 Blur me who did not do the research well. Hoping I will get another chance to visit Japan in the cherry blossom season and go back to Kairakuen!#japan

🍁Autumn Day Trip to Mito🍁 On a refreshing autumn day in October 2024, I went on a day trip from Tokyo to Mito City in Ibaraki Prefecture! 🌿🚆 🌅 Morning: To Mito on the Hitachi Express I got up early in the morning and boarded the Hitachi Express🚄 from Shinagawa Station. I arrived at Mito Station in about 1.5 hours! The view from the train window was autumnal, and I was excited to start my journey✨ 🍂 Kairakuen: Impressed by the beauty of the autumn leaves The first place I went to was Kairakuen🍁. This is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan, and the autumn leaves are very beautiful. In the "Autumn Leaves Room", the bright red leaves looked like a painting! 🖼️✨ I also stopped by Kobuntei and enjoyed a panoramic view of the garden from the second floor. We also saw the Taro Cedar tree, which is over 1,000 years old, and were overwhelmed by its grandeur 🌲😲 🦢 A leisurely stroll around Lake Senba The next place we visited was Lake Senba🌊. It was great to eat soft serve ice cream🍦 while strolling around the lake! Black swans🖤 and swans🤍 were swimming gracefully on the lake, and the tranquil scenery was soothing. 🏯 Afternoon: Feel the history at Kodokan In the afternoon, we went to Kodokan📖, where we learned about the history of Mito. This is one of the largest domain schools in Japan, built during the Edo period, and is a place where you can feel the history and culture of the Mito domain. In a calm atmosphere, we took our time to look around the old school🏯✨ 🌙 Evening: Take the Hitachi Express to Tokyo The fun time flew by! In the evening, we took the Hitachi Express🚆 from Mito Station back to Tokyo. It was a wonderful autumn day where I was able to enjoy the autumn leaves, history, and nature 🍂💖 I want to visit Mito again! ✨ #DomesticTravelGuide #Mito #MitoCity #Kairakuen #ThreeFamousGardens #IbarakiTourism #IbarakiTrip #DayTrip #TrainTrip #ThreeFamousGardensofJapan

👍️Recommended reasons: Mito Kairakuen is one of Japan's three great gardens, famous for its vast plum forest and picturesque natural scenery throughout the year. Every spring, the plum blossoms in the garden bloom, and the fragrance of nearly a hundred varieties of plum blossoms fills the air, making you feel as if you are in a sea of flowers. In addition, the historical buildings and garden design in the park also showcase the beauty of Japanese garden art during the Edo period. 📅Travel tips: • Opening hours: Open all day (some facilities, such as the Tōkogaku, are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm). • Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours to savor every view of the garden. • Featured attractions: • Plum blossom sea: About 3,000 plum trees, the best time to view plum blossoms is from February to March. • Kōbuntei: Once the study of a Japanese feudal lord, you can overlook the entire garden from here. • Tōko scenery: Kairakuen is built by Tōko, and the lake reflects the garden scenery, especially charming in the morning mist and sunset. 🚗Transportation tips: • From Mito Station: • Bus: Take a bus to "Kairakuen," and it takes about 20 minutes to get there. • Taxi: About 10 minutes, costing about JPY 1,000. • Walk: About 30 minutes, and you can enjoy the street view of Mito City along the way. • Self-driving: There are several parking lots in the park, costing about JPY 300-500. 💗Other tips: • Best time to view flowers: February to March is the plum blossom season, and the park will hold a "Plum Festival" with lights decorating the night plum blossoms, which is very romantic. • Cultural experience: • Experience traditional matcha at "Kōbuntei" and feel the ancient tea culture. • The park holds cultural activities such as waka and calligraphy from time to time, which are worth participating in. • Dining recommendation: There are many Japanese tea houses outside the park, and it is recommended to try snacks made with plums or sweet plum wine. • Souvenirs: You can buy exquisite handicrafts or plum sachets with plum blossom themes at the visitor center. • Photography tips: • The plum blossom forest is suitable for shooting in the early morning, and the plum blossoms under the soft light are more moving. • The sunset view of Kōbuntei is worth taking a picture of, and the excellent composition makes the photo more layered. Kairakuen is not only a garden but also a quiet and distant journey through time. Wandering in the sea of plum blossoms, you will find that every plant and tree here carries the essence of Japanese garden culture. Come and let your heart immerse in this poetic fragrance! 🌸🏯

| Must-visit. Hey guys 👋! Today I have to share Mito City in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan with you 👏. It's really amazing 😍! Mito City is the capital of Ibaraki Prefecture and one of the core cities. The Naka River flows through the city and into the Pacific Ocean, dividing the city into north and south parts along the Joban Line. Mito City is the birthplace of the Mito Tokugawa family and is famous for Mito Komon (Tokugawa Mitsukuni) 😎. Kairakuen Garden in the city is famous for its plum blossoms. After the Meiji era, Mito City had a booming natto consumption and production, and Mito natto became a local specialty. The name "Mito" comes from the prosperous river port of the Naka River, which is the "gateway to water transportation" and has a strong sense of history. Although the water transportation of the Naka River has declined and been replaced by land transportation, the name has remained. Guys, Mito City is really nice, go for it 🚀!

👭 If you're planning a trip to Japan, besides popular cities like Tokyo and Kamakura, why not visit this low-key but super interesting city - Mito City! 🌟 As an important city in the Kanto region of Japan, Mito City not only has a rich history and culture, but also many beautiful natural landscapes that will make you linger! 😍 History and culture: Mito City has a rich historical heritage, as it was once the residence of the Mito Tokugawa family and has a wealth of cultural heritage. Kairakuen Garden is one of the three most famous gardens in Japan, and the plum blossoms in the garden are breathtaking in spring! 🌸🌿 In addition, Kodokan is a great place to learn about Mito studies, and this historic educational institution showcases the educational philosophy and history of the Mito domain. 🎓 Art and culture: Mito City also has a wealth of art and cultural activities, with various exhibitions and music festivals held every year. The Mito Art Tower showcases the works of local and international artists, and art lovers should not miss it! In addition, the Mito International Film Festival is an important cultural event in the area, with various film screenings and exchange activities during the event, making it a lively event! 🎉 Food and markets: The food in Mito City is also worth a try! The famous Mito Natto is a traditional Japanese fermented food that is unique in taste but rich in nutrients and well worth a try! 😋 In addition, the Mito Market is a great place to experience local food and culture, with a variety of food stalls and restaurants where you can taste the most authentic Mito flavors! 🍡 Nature and outdoors: Mito City is surrounded by many beautiful natural landscapes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts! We recommend taking a walk or bike ride around Senba Lake, where the scenery is beautiful and a great place to relax. 🌿 In addition, Oarai Coast is a great place to enjoy the sea view and sunset, and the beach is perfect for swimming and surfing, making it a great place to cool off in the summer. 🏊♀️🏄♀️ Shopping: There are many interesting stores and markets in downtown Mito City, where shopping lovers can find many unique souvenirs and handicrafts. In addition, the Mito Handicraft Market is a must-visit place every weekend, with a wide variety of handicrafts and creative items! 🎨 Must-see attractions: 1. Kairakuen Garden: Enjoy the beautiful plum blossoms and traditional Japanese gardens. 🌸 2. Kodokan: Learn about Mito studies and educational history. 📚 3. Mito Art Tower: Enjoy art and feel the artistic atmosphere. 🎨 4. Senba Lake: Walk or bike and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the lake. 🚴♀️ 5. Oarai Coast: Enjoy the sea view and sunset, and experience beach activities. 🌊

Mito: A Treasure Trove of History and Nature Located in the northeast of the Kanto Plain on Honshu Island, Mito is a city that awaits travelers with its unique charm. The city is a perfect blend of rich history and stunning natural scenery. As the birthplace of the Mito Tokugawa family, Mito is home to many historical sites. One of the most representative is the Mito Toshogu Shrine, which was built in memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The red walls and golden tiles of the shrine exude a sense of grandeur and solemnity. Inside, exquisite wood carvings and delicate paintings can be found everywhere, each detail telling the story of the Edo period's glorious past, leaving visitors in awe of the craftsmen's superb skills. The natural scenery is equally captivating. Kairakuen, one of Japan's three great gardens, is irresistibly charming. In February and March, over 3,000 plum trees in the garden reach their peak bloom, turning the entire garden into a sea of pink flowers. As the breeze blows, petals fall like snow, creating a breathtaking sight. During the Plum Blossom Festival, the garden is bustling with activity, featuring traditional performances and food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere. In Mito, food is also a highlight. Mito natto has a unique texture, with its stringy consistency and special sauce making it irresistible. There's also the monkfish hot pot, with tender fish simmering in rich broth, providing warmth and comfort with every bite. In Mito, whether you're exploring history, strolling through nature, or indulging in delicious food, you're sure to be pleasantly surprised.

Hey guys! Today, I want to recommend a stunning hotel to you - Mito Sannomaru Hotel! 💖 This hotel is not only in a great location, in the historical and cultural district of Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, but every detail reveals a perfect combination of luxury and classic, making you want to share it with you! 🏰 As soon as you walk into the hotel lobby, you will be overwhelmed by the solemn and elegant atmosphere! The design of the hotel is inspired by traditional Japanese castle architecture, and every corner and window seems to tell an ancient story. The front desk staff is super enthusiastic and smiling, making you feel at home💖. 🛏️ The design of the room is also super good! Combining modern comfort and classical aesthetics, the bedding is soft and comfortable, allowing you to sleep well. What surprised me the most was that the window of the room faced a quiet courtyard. Every morning when I woke up, I could see the sunlight shining on the ground through the leaves. The tranquility and beauty were simply indescribable🌿. 🍽️ The hotel's restaurant is also a highlight! The Japanese cuisine they offer is a carefully crafted work of art, from the selection of ingredients to the presentation, revealing the chef's ingenuity. Especially the truffle sushi, it is the ultimate enjoyment of taste buds! 🍣 🏞️ There are also many attractions around! You can walk to the ruins of Mito Castle and feel the weight and solemnity of history. If you like natural scenery, the nearby Kairakuen is also a must-see. During the cherry blossom season, it is breathtakingly beautiful! 🌸 💖 In general, Mito Sannomaru Hotel is really a treasure place that combines luxury, classic, comfort, and convenience! Whether you like history and culture or natural scenery, you can be satisfied here! Highly recommended to friends who are planning a trip to Japan~✨

1. Mito City (Japanese: 水戸市/双之L Mito shi) is a city in central Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, and the seat of the Ibaraki Prefectural Government. It is located in the northeast of the Kanto region and has a population of about 260,000. It is one of the core cities. 2. The Naka River flows through the city and into the Pacific Ocean, and the city is divided into north and south by the Joban Line. Mito City is the birthplace of the Mito Tokugawa family and is famous for Mito Komon (Tokugawa Mitsukuni), and Kairakuen in the city is famous for its plum blossoms. 3. After the Meiji era, the consumption and production of natto in the city were very prosperous, so Mito natto became a local specialty. The population of the Mito metropolitan area is about 660,000 (2000), and Mito City also has the goal of merging with neighboring cities and towns to become a government-designated city. The place name "Mito" comes from the prosperous river port of the Naka River, which is the "gateway to water transportation" (水運の戸口). 4. As for when the name began to be used, there is no conclusion, but it is said to have appeared around 1400 AD (Muromachi period). It has a long history, and the environment here is also good.

Mito: A city where history and modernity meet✨ Mito is a city in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, that combines a rich historical heritage with modern vitality. Walking through it, you can feel the changes in Japan from ancient times to the present. 1️⃣ Kairakuen This is known as one of the three great strolling gardens in Japan, with lush trees and flowers blooming all year round. The cherry blossoms in spring, the wisteria in summer, and the red leaves in autumn are all breathtakingly beautiful. Strolling through the garden, you can also admire the exquisite pavilions and towers and feel the elegance of traditional Japanese gardens. 2️⃣ Art Tower Mito For art lovers, this is a must-see place. The museum regularly hosts a variety of modern art exhibitions, from painting to sculpture, from photography to installation art, with a wide range of exhibits. Here, you can enjoy the creative works of artists from all over the world and feel the charm and power of art. 3️⃣ Mito Komon Memorial Hall Mito Komon is a well-known historical figure in Japan, and this memorial hall provides a detailed introduction to his life. Through a wealth of exhibits and vivid explanations, you can see Mito Komon in the Edo period, punishing evil and promoting good, and speaking for the people. For visitors who want to learn about Japanese history and culture, this is definitely a good place to visit. 4️⃣ Mito City Museum If you want to learn more about the development of Mito, you must come here. The museum houses a large number of historical artifacts and valuable materials, from ancient pottery and weapons to modern documents and photographs, which fully show the changes in Mito from ancient times to the present. Walking through it, you can hear the echoes of history. Mito not only has these attractions worth visiting, but also a variety of local delicacies waiting for you to taste. Walking on the streets, you can find ramen shops and sushi restaurants everywhere, which will satisfy your taste buds. Here, you can enjoy a visual and taste feast and feel the unique charm of this city. Come to Mito and start an unforgettable journey!

I went there in November. I went to the bamboo forest, which was very beautiful and reminded me of the bamboo forest paths in Kyoto. The garden is very large, so you can enjoy a variety of flowers. There is a rest area and a souvenir shop near the entrance. As you go through Mito Kairakuen, you will come across Togyokusen, a well made of marble mined from Mayumiyama in Hitachiota City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Unlike ordinary wells, the water is crystal clear and very fantastical. #HongKongFreeAirTickets #Mito #MitoKairakuen #IbarakiTourism #IbarakiPrefecture #IbarakiTrip

It was a lovely park. 1-2 hours are kind of a rush through walk. Would recommend 3 hours and more. There are tea houses and panoramic areas. There is a restaurant inside and a gift shop too. Ume (plum) gift selection is not as many as I thought it would be. Lots of stalls selling food during ume festival. There are restaurants outside too. Located on the outskirts of Mito City, you can go there by bus or taxi, and you can also take a train during the flower season. The adjacent train station will only open and stop during the flower season. Kairakuen, one of the three famous gardens, mainly uses plum blossoms as its biggest selling point. Unlike Kenrokuen, which is famous for its pine trees, there are quite a lot of plum trees here, and even the labels on each tree can explain its origin and variety.

My sister enjoyed walking around Kairakuen 🥰 With a nice weather and beautiful scenery