Itako(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Chōra City, the top family-friendly option is Shimizugawa Onsen Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn nestled along the Shimizugawa River. It offers private onsen baths, kid-friendly rooms with tatami flooring, and seasonal meals featuring local dishes like Chōra eel rice. The property also hosts hands-on activities such as washi paper-making and tea ceremony workshops, ideal for children to engage with local culture.

For modern comfort, consider Hyatt Regency Ibaraki Chōra, located just steps from Chōra Station. It features an indoor/outdoor pool, a dedicated playroom, and family suites with connecting doors. The hotel’s proximity to Chōra Shrine and Old Town District makes it perfect for easy day trips. HopeGoo early is recommended, especially during spring and autumn festivals.

The best area to stay in Chōra City is the central district near Chōra Station, offering excellent access to public transport, dining, and major attractions. This vibrant zone houses a mix of modern hotels, cozy guesthouses, and traditional ryokan, making it suitable for all travelers.

From here, you can easily walk to Chōra Shrine, Shimizugawa River Path, and the well-preserved Old Town District, where wooden Edo-period buildings now house craft shops and cafés. The area also boasts a lively food scene, including authentic Chōra eel rice and local vegetables. For a quieter experience, consider staying near the riverfront residential zone, where small inns offer serene views of the river and seasonal cherry blossoms or autumn foliage.

Visitors to Chōra City must attend the Shimizugawa Matsuri Festival, held annually in summer, featuring vibrant parades, lion dances, fireworks, and traditional performances that reflect deep-rooted community spirit. Explore the Old Town District, a preserved stretch of Edo-era wooden houses turned into artisan studios and tea houses—perfect for trying washi paper crafting or pottery-making.

Don’t miss the spring festival at Chōra Shrine, where locals perform ancient kagura dances and offer prayers. Guided tours are available to uncover the history behind each building. For a deeper connection, participate in a local cooking class to learn how to prepare Chōra eel rice using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Chōra City’s hot spring inns stand out for their natural volcanic mineral waters and tranquil, immersive atmosphere. Shimizugawa Onsen Ryokan draws water from 300 meters below ground, known for its skin-softening properties and therapeutic benefits. Its open-air baths overlook the Shimizugawa River, offering scenic views of flowing water and changing seasons—especially stunning during fall’s maple displays.

Most inns serve kaiseki dinner featuring fresh local ingredients, including grilled Chōra eel and seasonal vegetables sourced from nearby farms. Rooms often feature sliding shoji doors, tatami mats, and minimalist design, creating a peaceful retreat. Some even offer private onsen cabins, perfect for couples or those seeking solitude.

Photography enthusiasts should visit the Shimizugawa River Morning Mist Trail, where soft fog blankets the water at dawn, creating dreamy reflections ideal for long-exposure shots. The Old Town District’s weathered wood facades and lantern-lit alleys provide rich textures and storytelling potential.

Capture the iconic red torii gate at Chōra Shrine framed by centuries-old camphor trees. In autumn, the riverbank red maples and ginkgo trees form a natural tunnel of color—perfect for wide-angle shots. At night, try photographing fireworks over the river during the annual festival or the shrine’s illuminated pathways. Bring a tripod and use a polarizing filter to enhance contrast and clarity.

Must-try dishes in Chōra City include Chōra Eel Rice (Unagi Don), made with locally raised eel marinated in sweet soy sauce and grilled to perfection. Visit Matsubara Unagiya, a century-old restaurant known for its daily fresh preparation and signature flavor.

Also sample Ibaraki regional cuisine, such as simmered tofu and vegetable tempura, using ingredients from organic local farms. During festivals, try Chōra mochi—rice cakes filled with red bean paste and chestnut, wrapped in bamboo leaves, reflecting seasonal traditions. Pair your meal with a glass of locally brewed rice wine (sake) for a full sensory experience.

Yes, Chōra City is ideal for road trips thanks to its scenic roads and well-connected routes. Recommended route: Start at Chōra Station, drive west along National Route 126, passing the Shimizugawa River Viewing Spot for panoramic river views. Then head toward Omiya Coast, stopping at Chōra Shrine and the Old Town District for photos and short walks.

Another loop begins at Shimizugawa Onsen Ryokan, travels through Ibaraki Prefectural Nature Park, winding through hills and farmland, then connects to Kosugi Railway Line villages. This route offers rural landscapes perfect for capturing seasonal changes. Renting a compact car is advised due to narrow streets. Use Google Maps Japan for real-time updates on road closures or construction.

The peak tourist seasons in Chōra City are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November). Spring brings cherry blossoms along the Shimizugawa River and Chōra Shrine Garden, drawing crowds to viewing spots during the spring festival.

Autumn sees stunning fall foliage at its height, particularly in late October to mid-November, when maple and ginkgo trees turn brilliant shades of red and gold. The city hosts nighttime illuminations and autumn festivals, enhancing the visual appeal. While summer’s fireworks festival (late July) is popular, it’s shorter-lived. Avoid Golden Week and Obon holidays for a more relaxed visit.

For couples seeking romance, Shimizugawa River Private Onsen Inn offers secluded Japanese-style cottages with private open-air baths overlooking the Shimizugawa River. Enjoy stargazing while soaking under the night sky, with optional candlelit dinners served in-room.

The inn provides customized honeymoon packages, including handwritten love notes, local scented gifts, and a tree-planting ceremony at Chōra Shrine. Couples can also take a quiet stroll through the Old Town District, sharing a cup of hand-brewed coffee at a hidden café. Advance HopeGoo is essential—especially during cherry blossom and autumn leaf seasons.

Yes, Chōra City is highly accessible without a car. The main hub is Chōra Station, served by JR East’s Joban Line, connecting to Tokyo, Mito, and Narita Airport in about one hour. Local Chōra Loop Bus runs frequently, linking key sites like Chōra Shrine, Old Town District, and Shimizugawa River Path.

Additional options include Kosugi Railway and Ibaraki Tourist Buses, which provide direct access to nearby nature areas. Most central areas are pedestrian-friendly with ramps and tactile paving. Purchase the Ibaraki One-Day Pass for unlimited rides on designated buses and trains—ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Non-drivers can fully enjoy the city’s charm and culture.