Best of Ibaraki
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Port
Hitachinaka, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$360
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
An approximately 50-minute drive brings you to Kairakuen Garden. You'll pause en route to taste plum wine.
Created in 1842 and one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, Kairakeun is known for its variety of Japanese apricot (ume) trees. Approximately 100 species and 3,000 ume trees are planted here. Climb to the top floor of a quaint wooden building for the best view of the garden and nearby Senba Lake. Snap some photos if you like.
After a lunch of locally-sourced ingredients, drive to a local pottery kiln to meet with professionals and learn about their artistic process. You can purchase their wares as well.
Finally, head to Shunpu Banri-so Villa -- an annex of the Kasama Nichido Museum of Art. Originally built as a private house in the mid-Edo period, it was relocated from Kita-Kamakura in 1965 and is renowned for its architectural beauty. The villa was once the home of renowned Japanese artist Kitaoji Rosanjin and retains its original charm.
Please note:
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency, as some vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Weather and atmospheric conditions vary; no guarantee is offered with regard to visibility or views on any particular day. Traffic can be unpredictable; your patience is greatly appreciated if a delay extends the tour duration. It takes approx. 15 mins per way to visit Kairakuen Garden.