Hitachi-Omiya City

Index

Highlights of Hitachi-Omiya City

Hitachi-Omiya City is approximately 100 to 120 minutes from Tokyo, offering a serene escape into Japan’s “Satoyama” heartland. Located in the northwestern part of Ibaraki Prefecture along the pristine Kuji and Naka Rivers, it serves as an ideal sanctuary for travelers seeking deep nature and rural authenticity.

The city is a paradise for outdoor adventurers and those looking to relax in nature. Visitors can trek the Hitachi-no-kuni Long Trail, a world-class route through ancient forests, or enjoy peaceful canoeing and kayaking on the Naka River. For families and owl lovers, the “Owl Shrine” (Torinokosansho) is a delight; while famous for its golden owl, the real fun is searching for the many hidden owl carvings and charms scattered throughout the grounds. For a mystical experience, explore the stone statues of Hyakkannon Nature Park, or visit the Nishinouchi Washi Museum to practice the centuries-old art of traditional washi papermaking, for which this area is famous.

Reaching Hitachi-Omiya is straightforward. Take the JR Joban Line express from Ueno Station to Mito, then transfer to the scenic Suigun Line. By car, it is a pleasant two-hour drive via the Joban Expressway.

Explore more about Hitachi-Omiya City and discover its hidden gems below!

Beautiful hydrangeas at the Tatsunokuchi Shinsui Park in Hitachi-Omiya City

Beautiful sakura path at the Tatsunokuchi Shinsui Park in Hitachi-Omiya City

Michinoeki Kawa Plaza (local facility selling local produce) in Hitachi-Omiya city

Hundreds of Sakura trees among the Kuji river in Hitachi-Omiya City

Shibazakura of Kobune in Hitachi-Omiya City

Access

From Tokyo

From Airports

Haneda Intl. Airport

Narita Intl. Airport

Ibaraki Airport

Main Stations

Videos of Hitachi-Omiya City

HITACHIOMIYA CITY- VISIT IBARAKI,JAPAN GUIDE

Spring at Hitachi-Omiya

Activities in Hitachi-Omiya

Hitachi Omiya City Tourism

Things to DO in Hitachi-Omiya City

Torinoko Sansho Jinjya Shrine famous for the owl carvings in Hitachi-Omiya City.

Torinokosansho Shrine

Experience a fun scavenger hunt for families and owl lovers! While famous for its massive golden owl, the real charm lies in searching for over 100 hidden owl carvings and lucky charms tucked away throughout the spiritual forest.

Items made from Nishinomiya Washi Paper which is a local product of Hitachi-Omiya City

Nishinouchi Washi

Discover the centuries-old art of Nishinouchi Washi, a durable paper once prized by the Mito Domain. Visit the museum to watch master artisans at work or join a workshop to create your own beautiful "suki-e" paper art.

Naka River Canoeing

Enjoy a peaceful river adventure with Storm Field Guide. Whether you choose a half-day paddle or a long-distance touring session, the clear, gentle waters are perfect for families and beginners wanting to explore Japan’s pristine "Satoyama" landscapes.

Views of the Nasu mountains from hiking trails in Hitachi-Omiya City

Hitachi-no-kuni Long Trail

Lace up your boots for the Hitachi-no-kuni Long Trail. This world-class trekking route connects historic post towns and lush mountain ridges, offering hikers a flexible way to explore untouched forests and authentic rural villages at their own pace.

Famous buddhist statues at Hyaku Kannnon Shizen Koen (nature park) in Hitachi-Omiya City

Hyakkannon Nature Park

Hike through a mystical forest filled with nearly 100 stone Kannon statues. The trail leads to a hidden cave housing ancient figures, including a famous statue believed to heal eyesight—a perfect spot for spiritual discovery and haunting photography.

Santa no Yu. A onsen bath facility in Hitachi-Omiya City

Santa-no-Yu Onsen

Relax like a local at this hot spring named after a legendary gentle giant. Soak in skin-soothing alkaline waters while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. It is the perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of outdoor activities.

EATING in Hitachi-Omiya City

Japanese Food

Hitachi-Omiya is the heartland of Hitachi Aki Soba. Many local shops like Gozenyama Village serve these premium, nutty noodles alongside locally grown vegetables, a forest-to-table experience you shouldn’t miss!

Western Food

While primarily rural, finding Western meals is easy at the city’s scenic river-view dining hubs. Enjoy artisanal pizzas and creative soba-flour galettes made with organic ingredients sourced directly from the city’s lush farms.

Forest Shiitake

Hitachi-Omiya is famous for thick, meaty Shiitake mushrooms naturally cultivated on logs in the forest. Packed with deep umami, they are delicious whether served as crispy tempura or simply salt-grilled.

Places to STAY in Hitachi-Omiya City

Riverside Camping & Glamping

Hitachi-Omiya has several top-rated riverside sites. Guests can relax comfortably in nature, and enjoy outdoor activities. Options range from basic forest tents to premium glamping cabins featuring private saunas and BBQ decks.

Guesthouses

There are limited but highly rated guesthouses and local lodges. These offer a countryside stay, run by friendly locals, making them a practical choice for hikers or cyclists exploring the region.

Small Onsen Ryokans

The city has a few modest traditional inns featuring local hot spring water. These quiet retreats offer a simple Japanese-style stay and are perfect for those wanting to experience a rural, unpretentious bathhouse atmosphere.