The best tours in Ibaraki Prefecture get right to the point, offering authentic Japanese experiences without the usual tourist traps. You’ll find excellent guided visits to Japan’s tallest bronze Buddha and fascinating walks through historic sake breweries that have operated for generations. What makes these tours special is their hands-on approach – you can actually make traditional paper crafts and lanterns alongside local artisans. I especially love the private walking tours through the old town districts, where you’ll discover hidden spots that most travelers miss. The sake tasting tours are another highlight, combining history lessons with generous samples of Japan’s favorite drink. Let’s explore the top tours that make Ibaraki worth your time.
Key Points
- The Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the largest bronze Buddha statues globally, can be visited on a 5-star rated tour with an English-speaking guide.
- Visitors can explore a century-old soy sauce factory and learn about the soy sauce making process, with a delicious local lunch included.
- The Yoshikubo Sake Brewery offers private sake tastings and an exploration of the brewing process, with flexible cancellation policies.
- A private samurai-themed tour includes a visit to Kairakuen Garden, a hands-on lantern-making activity, and transportation from Tokyo Station.
- An adventure tour in Northern Ibaraki combines a visit to a Japanese art supply store, washi paper making, and a coffee break in Kairakuen Garden.
The Tallest Great Buddha Spot Walking Tour
The Tallest Great Buddha Spot Walking Tour takes visitors on an engaging journey to witness the impressive Ushiku Daibutsu, one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues.
Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, this 5-star rated tour offers an English-speaking guide to provide insights as you explore the grounds. The tour includes the 800 JPY entrance fee, allowing you to fully learn about the serene atmosphere.
The meeting point is in front of the Ushiku Daibutsu’s ticket gate, and the tour returns to the same location, with a start time of 10:00 am. Confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation. Priced at €123.86 per group (up to 5 people), the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: The Tallest Great Buddha Spot Walking Tour Review
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Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki
Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, a century-old soy sauce factory offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the traditional art of soy sauce making.
The Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at this century-old factory provides an intimate, behind-the-scenes experience. Guests will explore the soy sauce making process from start to finish, learning about the time-honored techniques used to craft this essential Japanese condiment.
The tour includes a delicious lunch, ensuring visitors fully experience the flavors of the region. Conveniently located and accessible by public transportation, the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly, making it a great option for travelers of all abilities.
With an overall 5-star rating from previous guests, this tour offers an exceptional cultural experience in Ibaraki Prefecture. Booking is simple, with flexible cancellation policies and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Don’t miss the chance to step inside a century-old soy sauce brewery and uncover the secrets behind this beloved Japanese staple.
Read our full review: Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki Review
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Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki
Although located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, the Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore a legendary sake brewery. Accessible via a short taxi ride from Mito Station, the tour takes visitors to the Yoshikubo Sake Brewery, where they can enjoy a private walking tour and sake tasting experience.
The tour includes alcoholic beverages and sake tastings, making it an ideal activity for adults (20 years old or older) interested in learning about the art of sake production. Visitors will have the chance to explore the brewery, learn about the brewing process, and sample a variety of sake offerings.
The tour is a private experience, ensuring that only your group participates. While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers, most visitors can comfortably take part in the activity.
Booking confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.
Read our full review: Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki Review
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Samurai Private Tour With Lantern Making in Mito
For those seeking a deeper dive into Ibaraki Prefecture‘s rich samurai history, the Samurai Private Tour with Lantern Making in Mito offers a captivating experience. Priced at $516.94 per person, this private tour takes visitors on a journey through the region’s samurai heritage.
The day begins at Tokyo Station, where participants are transported to Ibaraki in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. Highlights include a visit to the picturesque Kairakuen Garden for a coffee break and a delicious included lunch.
The tour culminates in a hands-on lantern-making activity, allowing participants to create their own unique souvenirs. With limited physical accessibility and a moderate fitness level required, this tour is best suited for able-bodied travelers.
Booking is subject to availability, and no refunds are offered for cancellations. The Samurai Private Tour with Lantern Making provides an immersive glimpse into Ibaraki’s storied past.
Read our full review: Samurai Private Tour With Lantern Making in Mito Review
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Private Adventure Tour in Northern Ibaraki and Washi Paper Making
Offering a thrilling adventure through Northern Ibaraki, the Private Adventure Tour in Northern Ibaraki and Washi Paper Making provides an immersive exploration of the region’s natural wonders and traditional craftsmanship.
Starting in Tokyo, the tour takes participants to the Uematsu Japanese Art Supply store before whisking them away to Ibaraki Prefecture. Highlights include a coffee break at the picturesque Kairakuen Garden and a hands-on washi paper making experience.
Visitors will also don traditional “dogi” clothing and engage in Taki-gyo, an intriguing local tradition. The tour includes private transportation, all fees, and a delicious lunch.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, the moderate physical fitness required ensures an engaging adventure. Priced from $729.61 per person, this private tour guarantees an intimate and memorable experience within Ibaraki’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Private Adventure Tour in Northern Ibaraki and Washi Paper Making Review
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Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit
Departing from the immersive cultural experiences of the Private Adventure Tour, the Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit in Ibaraki Prefecture offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich traditions.
This private tour takes guests to a local sake brewery, where they’ll learn about the brewing process and sample the artisanal beverages. Afterward, the tour continues to the Shinran Temple, a significant religious site associated with the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for a range of travelers. However, those with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with heart conditions may want to consult the local provider before booking.
The tour’s moderate physical fitness requirement ensures a comfortable experience for most participants. With a 5.0 rating from Viator and Tripadvisor, this private tour promises an enriching and memorable journey through Ibaraki’s cultural heritage, available at the lowest price of $26.17 per person.
Read our full review: Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit Review
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Samurai Private Tour With Umeshu Tasting in Mito
Although the Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit offers a captivating glimpse into Ibaraki’s cultural heritage, the Samurai Private Tour with Umeshu Tasting provides an immersive experience centered around the region’s samurai history and local spirits.
Priced from $474.41 per person, this private tour departs from Tokyo Station, transporting guests to Ibaraki Prefecture in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour includes a visit to Kairakuen Garden for a coffee break, as well as a delicious lunch. Participants will have the opportunity to sample umeshu, a traditional Japanese plum wine, though this tasting is limited to those 20 years of age and older.
While the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions, it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
Notably, the tour is non-refundable, and no cancellations are permitted.
The Samurai Private Tour with Umeshu Tasting offers a unique chance to explore Ibaraki’s rich samurai legacy and local flavors.
Read our full review: Samurai Private Tour With Umeshu Tasting in Mito Review
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Recap
Ibaraki Prefecture offers a diverse range of tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. From impressive Buddhist landmarks to traditional sake breweries and samurai experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or outdoor adventure, Ibaraki’s tour options provide an immersive and memorable experience for visitors. With so many options, travelers can easily find activities that align with their interests and make the most of their time in this captivating region.