Ryujin Suspension Bridge (Hitachiota City)

This 100m high dragon-inspired suspension bridge towers dramatically over the mountainous landscape of northern Ibaraki. The bridge offers panoramic views of the area including the wild cherry blossoms which dot the mountainsides during the Spring and the dramatic Autumn foliage. And that's not all - the bridge is also home to Japan's highest bungy jump.
If thrills aren't your thing, there are also plenty of hiking trails and soba restaurants in the area.

Kairakuen Garden (Mito City)

Kairakuen Garden is counted as one of Japan's Three Great Gardens and is particularly famous for its plum blossom festival which takes places from mid-February to early March each year. The garden was first established in 1842 by Tokugawa Nariaki, the 9th lord of the Mito Domain, as a place for local people to relax and enjoy themselves, a role which it retains to this day.
As well as the famous plum blossoms, attractions in Kairakuen Garden include Kobutei Villa, a lush bamboo forest and a natural spring.

Ushiku Daibutsu Buddha Statue (Ushiku City)

At 120m tall, this giant statue of Buddha holds the Guinness World Record for the world's tallest standing bronze statue. After viewing the imposing statue from outside, visitors can take the lift to the 85m high observation area for stunning views of the Ibaraki countryside and beyond. The area is particularly beautiful during the Spring when countless cherry blossoms fill the area around the base of the statue.

Lake Kasumigaura

Kasumigaura City and other municipalities on the lake

Japan’s second largest lake, Kasumigaura is designated as one of Japan’s 100 most beautiful spots. It is popular for such activities as fishing, sailing, and riding water motorcycles, and you can cycle along the shores of the lake as well. Sightseers can also enjoy boarding excursion boats to see traditional sailing vessels called hobikisen plying the waters of the lake.